POST Office chiefs have been criticised after deciding to shut a Lower Darwen counter.

The post office in Fore Street will shut its doors in the New Year as part of a national overhaul, which will see Post Office Ltd close 9,000 offices nationwide.

Eddie Herbert, area head of the Post Office, said the Lower Darwen counter had been affected by declining numbers, increased running costs and the prospect of less business.

But some have reacted with anger to the decision to close the post office.

Ward Councillor Mike Barrett said the Lower Darwen Post Office provided a focal point and much-needed facilities -- and he said the decision to close it was influenced by money.

He said: "This comes as an unpleasant announcement which will cause real difficulties for a relatively isolated community.

"Many people do not have access to banks and therefore draw their benefits or pensions from the local post office.

"The Post Office should be looking to widen the services that they actually have, not closing them. It's a narrow perspective they have basically just to save money."

He added that he would be joining with other councillors to object to the closure plans.

But Mr Herbert said: "We have considered this situation very carefully and have concluded that if this office were to close, it would improve the long-term prospects of the other offices in the area.

"The nearest of these are Ewood Post office in Bolton Road, Highercroft Post Office, Manxman Road and Moss Bridge Post office, Blackburn Road."

Anyone with any concerns and comments about the closure should write by December 2 to Eddie Herbert, National Consultation Team, PO Box 641, St Albans, AL1 5XN.

Coun Barrett said he and fellow councillors will object to the closing.