THE Clydesdale Bank says time is running out for community projects to enter its awards scheme; much like how time is running out for its branches in Clacks.

The corporate entity is looking to part ways with the Wee County, but for now it is urging local groups and initiatives to enter its 'Spirit of the Community Awards 2017'.

As previously reported, the financial institution is chopping both its remaining Clacks outlets in Alloa and Tillicoultry early in May – a decision that has raised concerns and eyebrows around the county.

Local ladies, the SNP's MP Ahmed-Sheikh as well as MSP Brown, and most recently all councillors, have previously come out against the plans and slammed the bank for deciding to leave the area with no face-to-face services.

They have been fighting to force a U-turn, but should proposals go ahead, customers will have to travel to Stirling or Dunfermline to access solutions over the counter.

But before all that, local groups have the chance to enter the awards programme, which recognises and supports projects that go the extra mile.

Showcasing a commitment to local communities, not-for-profit-organisations will have the chance to receive a share of £75,000.

Entries for this year must be submitted by Monday March 6 via cbonline.co.uk/foundation or visit a branch for an application form, they should still be open for now.

There are three categories in which projects can enter – helping and upskilling people for the workplace, promoting healthy relationships with money and protecting the environment.

Five projects will be selected in each category, with all 15 winners receiving £5,000 each.

Debbie Crosbie, Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks chief operating officer and chair of the Yorkshire and Clydesdale Bank Foundation, said: “Clydesdale Bank’s Spirit of the Community Awards aim to recognise and support the vital contribution that voluntary and charitable projects make to their local communities and there is still time for groups in Clackmannanshire to enter.

“The standard of entries over the last four years has been fantastic and we look forward to continuing our support for local communities again this year.”

Regarding the closures the banks has previously explained the number of customers using branches for day-to-day transactions has fallen by a third across the UK with more and more people using telephone and online services.

Customer banking director Gavin Opperman said: “While the decision to close any branch is never an easy one, it is important that we, in line with other banks operating in the UK market, continue to respond to changes in the way customers want to bank with us.”

It is not yet known how many jobs will be impacted at a local level as the private company is looking to retain some staff through a redeployment exercise.

Earlier this month MSP Brown had met with representatives at Holyrood and called on the bank to live up to its promise of: “As an independent bank, our dedication to local communities and people will be stronger than ever.” To see more on that promise, visit cbonline.co.uk/we-care-about-here/

While the application guidelines state: “The awards will be open to projects benefitting communities in the areas of England and Scotland where the bank operates”, a spokesperson insisted the programme will be available to all communities across the country, including in Clackmannanshire, as the bank has customers in all corners of the UK.