Call to halt PO closures (From Penarth Times)

Call to halt PO closures

PENARTH residents are being urged to sign a petition to help save local post offices.

According to Penarth Conservatives, many post offices in this area could be at risk.

Dianne Rees, the prospective Conservative Assembly said: "We are leading a local campaign to back post offices which are under threat.

"Many post offices could be at risk in this area. The Labour government has removed 35 percent of the average post office's income, without providing a credible means of filling the void."

She added: "Post offices in Penarth could close, and this would mean those who need them the most - the elderly and the disadvantaged - will lose out."

Colin Baker, Director General of the National Federation of Sub Postmasters has backed the campaign.

He said: "This is a very welcome initiative for post offices, and we urge everyone to support it and help us to maintain a viable post office for the future."

Dianne Rees added: "I know that the local post office is the heart of our local communities, if they go, not only do we lose those services but also in many cases the local shop.

" I have placed a petition in local Penarth post offices. Be sure to sign the petition and help maintain this valuable service."

* What do you think? How would you cope without a local post office? Write to the Penarth Times or phone Ceri Garner on 2070 7234.