The Co-op has announced it could close the Post Office counter in the How Wood store becasue it is not making a profet. 

District councillors were notified in a one page letter claiming that there was an alternative facility in Park Street, despite the fact it closed more than five years ago.

St Stephen parish councillor Jay Baillie said: “This is an outrageous and high handed decision with no consultation or thought towards those people who will find it difficult to get out of the village to access Post Office facilities.”

The counter in the store in Park Street could close as early as April 6.

The letter from Nicola Osborne at the Co-op said the decision to remove the post office was taken with the “greatest regret”. She said: “Removing it will allow us to improve the store, which will then be able to offer our customers and members a wider range.

“We will endeavour to redeploy the four members of staff within the Co-operative Group within the area and will provide assistance to help people obtain alternative employment."

Libaral Democrat parliamentary spokesperson Sandy Walkington said he was "very disappointed" at the news. He said: “The Co-op claim to be an ethical company, yet here they are justifying their decision on purely commercial grounds, ignoring the plight of many elderly and infirm people who rely on these services.”

Labour parliamentary spokesperson Kerry Pollard said: "Post offices are a lifeline for many resident’s providing a meeting point and place of interaction, particularly for older residents.

"I’ve been personally involved in the battle to save the post office on Prospect Road, because they have a real value. The closure of How Wood will mean many residents lose a service they depend upon for more than just their stamps.

"I hope the post office will engage with local residents through St Stephens Parish Council to see if there is a way to maintain a level of service to local residents in How Wood."

An online petition to fight the closure has been set up. Click here to sign up.