Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Sadness and shock as readers respond to news of Airdrie Savings Bank closure
The shock news that Airdrie Savings Bank is to close its doors after almost 182 years hit the Advertiser’s Facebook readers hard.
The institution, the UK’s last remaining savings bank, has confirmed all of its 70 employees are at risk of losing their jobs after they were told the entire business will be wound up.
Clive Whiteside posted: “A well-known local institution for so many years. Shocked to learn the news.”
James Love said: “Was the only independent bank left in Scotland, will be sadly missed.”
Gemma Nolan was a long-term customer of the bank: “Be sorry to see it go. I have been with ASB for about 20 years, and my mum and gran were customers too.”
Carolanne Carson added: “So sorry to hear people are going to lose their jobs.”
Valerie Flood commented: “Hope all the staff get new jobs.”
Susan Glasgow lamented the closure: “What a sad day.”
But Izzy Cummings wasn’t surprised by the news: “No wonder. It costs 30p to withdraw cash from ATMs, random £5 charges for service charges every few weeks, no internet banking and blue books from the 80s.”
David Manson agreed: “This is an example of what happens when you refuse to keep up with the competition and move with the times.”
In happier news, Coatbridge singer Craig Ward sailed through to the next stage of TV musical talent show The Voice after wowing judges with his rendition of Billy Joel’s Always A Woman.
Superstars Tom Jones, will.i.am and Gavin Rossdale all spun their revolving chairs to try and snap him up for their groups, with Welsh superstar Tom securing his talents.
Barbara Walker said: “Craig Ward is amazing. Let’s get behind him and show support for true talent.”
Mandy Lafferty posted: “Good luck to him, I will certainly be cheering him on.”