Grimshader on the Western Isles is earmarked for closure

The future of 13 branches on the Western Isles, four on Orkney and two on Shetland have been put out for public consultation.

Labour MSP Peter Peacock said the numbers were "disproportionately large" compared with those under review on the Highland mainland.

The Post Office intends to close 29 branches across Highland region.

One in five branches on the Western Isles are earmarked for closure.

Alec Macdonald, the convener of the local council Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, fears the closure plans could seriously affect the sustainability of many communities.

Present arguments

The 19 proposed for closure on the islands are Borve, Bragar, Breasclete, Gress, Grimshader, Knock, Leurbost, Northton, Shader, Sidinish, Skigersta, South Dell and Tigharry on the Western Isles.

Burray, Harray, Rendall and Swannay on Orkney and Camb and Levenwick on Shetland.

Mr Peacock said: "I will be writing to each post office threatened and offering support and also to the community councils in each affected area."

Western Isles SNP MP Angus MacNeil and MSP Alasdair Allan said they would "stand and fight" alongside any community wanting to retain its post office.