Strong response to postal survey

Early responses have been received from post offices in the Borders

Early survey responses show post office closures would have a "huge impact" in the Borders, according to a local MP.

Lib Dem Michael Moore said he had already received replies from one in three post offices in the region within the first week of the study.

The survey was launched in light of plans to close 2,500 branches in the UK to make the network more viable.

Mr Moore said the responses from sub postmasters showed deep concern about the future of their businesses.

"The government's plans to close 2,500 post offices in the UK, and to replace some of these with mobile units, are going to have a huge impact on rural communities," he said.

Business uncertainty

Mr Moore added that the uncertain future of the businesses was also a major issue.

"Temporary post office closures have always been a fact of life in rural communities.

"However, here in the Borders we have seen a definite increase in temporary closures in recent months, and the government's announcement will only serve to exacerbate the problem.

"People may be reluctant to take on a business whose future is clouded with uncertainty," he said.

South of Scotland SNP MSP Christine Grahame has also launched a survey of people in the Borders on the subject of post office closures.