Lois Canning, Britain’s only dedicated Flying Banker, braves harsh weather and rough seas to serve customers on the remote islands of the Orkney Isles.
The service, one of a handful operating worldwide, celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. It connects some of the most isolated parts of the British Isles, ensuring residents have access to in-person banking services.
A lifeline for remote communities
Ms Canning, who took over the role in 2019, travels to three remote islands to provide personal and business banking services. Her customers, ranging from teenage students to farmers and business owners, consider the service essential.
On Westray, an island with a population of 600, Ms Canning works from a small building by the shore, assisting up to 50 customers daily. She offers critical services such as cash deposits, change provision, and support for those struggling with the bank’s app.
Stewart Groat, who runs several businesses on Westray, depends on Ms Canning for cash services. He says, “We could use the Post Office but it’s run by a shop which is our competitor and you cannot get change there.”
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Ms Canning’s role extends beyond transactions. Phoebe Ryder, a university student, shares how Ms Canning helped her open an ISA and even gave her younger brother her mobile number for support. “That’s not a service you expect these days,” Ryder notes.
Challenges and disruptions
The role presents unique challenges. Ms Canning must be ready for unexpected disruptions, such as weather-related cancellations or issues with planes and ferries. Recently, gales forced her to take a 90-minute ferry ride back to Kirkwall through choppy seas.
Despite these obstacles, Ms Canning, who recently turned 65, has no plans to retire. “It’s a way of life that I love,” she says. Her commitment has earned her a special place in the hearts of the islanders, with many praising her patience and personal approach.
The bank also runs a mobile banking service using a fleet of vans, covering 577 stops in remote areas across the UK.
On alternate Thursdays, Ms Canning travels to the islands of Sanday and Stronsay, further extending her reach and impact in the region.
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A personal touch in banking
One of her youngest customers, Phoebe Ryder, a university student, values the personal touch.
Teenie Harcus, 59, who runs a hostel, B&B, and campsite, says that while ‘a lot can be done online’, her business uses ‘quite a bit of cash’ meaning ‘it’s important to be able to bank it and access change’. Maggie Drever, a cattle farmer, has used the service since she was 16 and now brings her 91-year-old mother for help with online banking.
Margaret Hutchison, treasurer of the Westray Heritage Trust, commends Ms Canning’s patience and dedication. The Flying Banker’s impact extends to community groups, with the Sanday Community Craft Hub benefiting from her arrangements to use bank buildings on days she’s not present.
Mobile Banking Services Across the UK
For instance, in Banchory, an outdoor equipment shop owner highlights the convenience of the mobile branch, as the nearest bank is 20 miles away in Aberdeen. The service saves him an entire morning of travel and allows him to focus on his business.
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