Liz Lochhead, Douglas Dunn, Michael Longley and Aonghas MacNeacail have expressed concerns over governance at the Scottish Poetry Library

High profile writers have severed their links with the Scottish Poetry Library.

The four honorary presidents of the charity – Liz Lochhead, Douglas Dunn, Michael Longley and Aonghas MacNeacail – have resigned amid concerns over governance.

A letter of resignation from the writers has said they are “deeply unhappy” with the current management of the library.

The letter said: “We, the undersigned, wish it to be known that, with great sadness, we have resigned as the four honorary presidents of the Scottish Poetry Library.

“We have done so because we are deeply unhappy with the current management and governance of the library.”

A statement from the charity’s board said: “This is a disappointment but it’s their decision. We’ve worked hard over the last year to bring the library’s governance into the 21st century and are certain that this work will strengthen the library for years to come.”

Director Asif Khan told the Scotsman: “I have continued confidence, and indeed admiration, of the good work, dedication, effort and commitment of the board, staff and volunteers to modernise and diversify the governance and services of the library.”

The library was founded 25 years ago and is situated in Crichton’s Close, by the Scottish Parliament building.