Politicians insist they will not give up on delivering a long-term solution for closure-hit Post Offices in Ayr.
The branch inside Spar's Whitletts store faces the axe while the busy Forehill outlet has already shut.
Business, community groups and the Post Office are now working together to try and find a new home for the vital services.
Labour MSP, Colin Smyth, and his Ayr council colleague, Ian Cavana, are appealing for a team effort to find a solution.
Mr Smyth, MSP for South Scotland, said: “There is still a lot of anger over the decision by CJ Lang to pull the plug on these services in some of the Spar shops they own, especially given that these are all profitable, viable Post Office counters.
"However, CJ Lang isn't prepared to discuss changing their position, so we now need to find alternatives.
“I had a good meeting with Post Office bosses and I’m confident that they’re doing all they can to keep services in each community.
"I’m pleased that both temporary and long-term arrangements are now being actively pursued by the Post Office.
“It is still early days but I am very hopeful that we can find a new home in Whitletts for the Post Office.
"I took the opportunity recently to visit not only the existing Post Office on the Main Road with Councillor Ian Cavana, but other businesses in the area that could host Post office services.
"These are now being considered by the Post Office.
“The existing office is really busy and sadly it will close at the end of the month.
"We spoke to a lot of customers who are still furious at the decision by CJ Lang to axe services and make loyal staff redundant who have given years of commitment and it really is a shameful way for the company to treat their workforce.
"They are also showing utter contempt for their loyal customers who in some cases simply can’t easily go into town to the nearest alternative Post Office.
“This decision may backfire on CJ Lang because if we can find an alternative shop in Whitletts to host the Post Office, then customers may well simply go there for groceries rather than use the Spar shop."
Ayr North Councillor Cavana added: “The plans to close Whitletts Post Office is nothing short of a disgrace.
“This branch serves many disabled and older residents, among others, who use the post office frequently.
“Many people use the service every week for paying bills and their council tax, and I know just how busy this Post Office can be.
“The nearest Post Office is in Lochside, which has limited opening hours, or WH Smith in Ayr town centre, which is not as easily accessible to people in Ayr North.
"We do need an alternative here in Whitletts and that’s why I’m working closely with Colin to explore every possible option.”
CJ Lang earlier explained their move to close both Ayr branches — and a number of others around Scotland — claiming they were no longer viable to run within their shops.
A Post Office spokesperson said they were “disappointed” with the move.
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