LAST minute talks have been held between city council leaders and the Post Office in a bid to safeguard five branches earmarked for closure.

The Post Office announced in April that five sub post offices in the area could close as part of its national programme of urban shutdowns.

The company says too many offices are competing for too little business.

Residents have until Monday (May 17) to air their views on the proposal for Newton, Skerton (Owen Road), Torrisholme Village, Beaufort Road and Balmoral Road branches.

Post Office representatives met with council leaders on Tuesday to discuss the future - and a 700-name petition calling for Torrisholme to stay open was presented.

"We were able to put the case for our local post offices forcefully," says council leader Cllr Ian Barker.

He was confident they raised new issues about the offices under threat, such as access difficulties.

Post Office spokesman Wendy Martin said the views would be take into account.

She would not say how many people have responded to the consultation, but stressed: "It is not a numbers game. It is the points raised that are crucial."

Views should be sent to Eddie Herbert, Post Office Ltd, PO Box 2060, Watford, WD18 8ZW by Monday May 17.