Fresh loan hope for crofters

TALKS between ministers and bankers have given new hope to crofters attempting to secure a mortgage.

Western Isles SNP MSP Dr Alasdair Allan had been contacted by crofters who have complained they had been refused a mortgage or loans because they received a grant from the Croft House Grant Scheme. The issue has now been taken up by Stewart Stevenson, the crofting minister.

A Royal Bank of Scotland spokesman said: “We understand the importance of crofting to Scotland and are prepared to assist where we can do so.”