Residents in Whitchurch are being asked for their views on what they want to replace their post office branch, which is closing after the resignation of the postmaster.

The national Post Office has written to locals apologising for the closure and promising to explore replacement provision, but warns providing any replacement services will depend on demand by customers.

Residents say it is important to keep the Whitchurch post office open because the Tavistock branch is already often congested with long queues of customers. They are also keen that the convenience shop in the same building remains open.

Matthew Walls (Post Office retail change lead) said: “We are writing to inform you (residents) that following the resignation of the postmaster and the withdrawal of the premises for Post Office use, the Whitchurch branch will be closing on Saturday, October 10.

“I would like to assure you we are investigating the options available which may enable us to reinstate a post office service to the local community. In exploring this, it is important that any future service is sustainable for the person operating the service and for Post Office Limited.

“Future provision will reflect customer numbers and usage and we may take the opportunity to establish an alternative type of service. This may be a local style branch which runs alongside an established retail shop in newly refurbished premises and creates a more modern and convenient experience for customers.”

He promises any changes to service provision will be handled in line with ‘our principles of community engagement’ and posters will be displayed in the branch keeping customers informed. This community engagement includes notifying customers of changes about opening hours, reopening closed branches on the same site and the location of a mobile post office (if deployed locally).

Matthew also apologised for the closure: “We apologise for the inconvenience the closure may cause. We hope our customers will continue use the Post Office services.”

He also promises to write to any local designated community representatives if he has any news about plans for future service provision.

Town Cllr Jeff Moody is unaware of the financial or operational position, or details of any alternative location. But said: “Clearly, it’s important that Whitchurch residents continue to have convenient access to Post Office services, particularly older and disabled residents and people without easy transport, but whether that should be at the existing branch or another suitable location needs proper information and consultation.I guess, at the end of the day, it is an operational commercial decision by the store owner.”

Cllr Moody, also town deputy mayor, added: “For those who don't have mobility or a car rely on public transport, this closure highlights how the current or new Devon Council should prioritise risk transport and ensure that new developments contribute sufficiently to public transport. If I were at County Hall that's one of many issues I'd be campaigning for.”

Customers and other residents are asked to write to the National Consultation Team at [email protected] or postofficeviews.co.uk https://postofficeviews.co.uk/ and FREEPOST Your Comments or call 03452660115