Council concerns over PO closures

Council leaders are demanding post office officials reconsider plans to shut 10 branches in Devon.

Five post offices in Exeter, two in Tiverton, one in Exmouth and two in Ilfracombe are being earmarked for closure.

Devon County councillor Derrick Spear, executive member for the economy, has asked the consumer body Postwatch to press for a review of the plan.

A Post Office spokesman said "all opinions" would be taken into account.

These decisions are not taken lightly Kieran Prescott, Post Office Limited

Councillor Spear said: "These businesses are central to a vibrant local community.

"Post Offices provide a community focus which is extremely important.

"We feel our current work and past experience in community regeneration gives us all the credibility we need to make our case. We just hope the Post Office listens."

Post Office spokesman Kieran Prescott said: "These decisions are not taken lightly and the consultation process has been put in place to ensure that all opinions are taken into account before any final decisions are made."