AS LOCAL residents, we are both shocked and disappointed at the plan to close Torrisholme Post Office.

It is hard to understand such a decision when the 'shop' is situated in the centre of the village, adjacent to other shops and easily accessible on foot for a community of almost 7,000 people.

The proposed alternative facilities following this closure would both involve walks of around two miles, hardly likely to encourage regular use.

It seems to us that many rural post offices now seem to enjoy far greater protection than their urban counterparts, and it is important that we know whether this reflects the wishes of the local community, including other local shops.

Would people, perhaps, prefer to retain Post Office facilities within one of the other retail outlets - Booth's Spar or even The George pub? This has happened elsewhere in the country.

We would encourage local people to write, with their views, to Eddie Herbert, Head of Area, Post Office Ltd National Consultation Team, PO Box 2600, Watford WD18 8ZW.

The closing date for your comments is May 17.

David and Elizabeth Alexander, Torrisholme.