An investigation into the cause of a fire at an Aberdeenshire bank remains on-going more than two weeks after the incident.
A blaze broke out at the TSB branch on Insch High Street just before midnight on January 13, with residents evacuated to nearby safe havens.
Neighbours alerted the fire and rescue service after spotting smoke coming from an empty flat above the branch.
And, last night, the fire and rescue service said its investigations into the fire remained on-going.
Firefighters, using jets and breathing apparatus, spent five hours dealing with the blaze.
Police advised people in several properties to evacuate their homes shortly after midnight, with some taking shelter in the local community centre which had been opened up for them.
Last night, West Garioch independent councillor, Sheena Lonchay, said: “My concern is that the future of this bank is reviewed, given that other banks have recently announced that they intend to limit some of their services.
“It looks in good repair, but the top windows obviously need a bit of attention.”
A spokesman for TSB said the branch would reopen in March.
He added: “We’re really sorry our branch in Insch remains closed due to fire damage. We are working as hard as we can to re-open it.
“Our Insch branch partners are now at nearby branches, so they can continue to help local customers.
“The nearest TSB branches to Insch are at Alford, Inverurie and Huntly – and customers can also manage their money via phone on 03459 758 758, online at tsb.co.uk and mobile.
“Customers can also access and deposit their money at Post Office branches.”
