A �2m improvement fund for post offices in deprived urban areas has been announced by the Scottish Executive.

The money is aimed at developing services, improving security systems and allowing greater access for disabled people.

Post offices will be able to apply for a one-off payment of up to �50,000 from the fund over the next two years.

Deputy social justice minister Des McNulty said the cash would help sustain and improve post offices, which he described as focal points of communities.

Post offices can apply for up to �50,000

He said: "Post offices provide socially important services and facilities as well as acting as an anchor for other retail activity in the community.

"I would encourage all eligible post offices to apply for a slice of this funding."

He added that applications to make branches self-sustaining through offering new services would be looked at favourably.

Mervyn Jones, Scottish representative for the National Federation of Subpostmasters (NFSP), said the money would keep businesses running in their communities and help improve their service.

The majority of post offices are private businesses run by a subpostmaster.

Mr Jones said: "Subpostmasters and their staff provide a very valuable service in many areas which have severe social and economic problems.

"They don't always get the recognition they deserve.

"Many work in run down properties and under very difficult circumstances.

"This money will help secure the long term future for some of these post offices."

Earlier in December the UK Government announced a �60m package to help secure a future for Scotland's rural post offices.