Tranent’s only opticians is set to close its doors with patients at the independent practice now being urged to go to Musselburgh for appointments.

Montgomery Optometrists closed its Prestonpans branch at the turn of the year and now the Tranent branch is to follow, a spokesperson for the group.

Karen and Brian Montgomery founded the East Lothian-based business almost 30 years ago.

It also has branches in Musselburgh and Haddington.

READ MORE: Prestonpans: Town's only opticians closes its doors

A spokesperson for the independent practice told the Courier that plans were in place to close the Tranent branch of Montgomery Optometrists soon and that patients would be encouraged to go to Musselburgh for treatment.

They said: “The team are closing two of the Montgomery practices (Prestonpans and Tranent) but will continue to serve patients from their Musselburgh location.

“This will eventually be relocated to a beautiful new custom-built practice within Musselburgh to accommodate and provide the best care possible for all their patients.”

The Courier has asked for clarification on when the Tranent branch is set to close, what job losses are anticipated and for details of the proposed new practice.

Mike Falconer, chair of Tranent and Elphinstone Community Council, said the news was disappointing for the town.

He said: “It’s unfortunate, and not what we wanted to hear. But I think given Prestonpans has closed too – it’s more a company decision rather than a reflection on Tranent.

“I’m optimistic the unit will be filled soon. I don’t know when it is to close but I know it is imminently.

“It’s a shame because they can say people should go to Musselburgh, but that drives people away from Tranent and Prestonpans and into Musselburgh.

“But I remain optimistic. There are positive changes happening here and real movement happening. We want to revitalise Tranent and there’s some good backing behind that.”

Dr DJ Johnston-Smith, chair of Prestonpans Community Council, said the closure of the Prestonpans branch was equally disappointing.

He added: “It is obviously very disappointing, we didn’t hear anything until after it was closed.

“The big thing is that it is another empty building in Prestonpans which we just don’t want to see. We are working to try and add more life to the town and we don’t like to see empty buildings.”