RISING running costs and a drop in business have triggered plans to close two more Post Offices in Lancaster.

Sub postmasters at the West Place branch, West Road, and Scotforth Post Office have both indicated they want to shut up shop.

Area head Eddie Herbert says: "The harsh reality is many urban offices are struggling to survive because there are too many branches for the amount of business"

The closures will 'improve the long term prospects of the other offices', he adds.

But Green councillors have vowed to fight the plan and are urging customers to speak out during a one-month consultation period.

Marsh's Cllr Chris Coates says: "The loss of our Post office would have a big impact on the community, particularly the elderly who are less able to walk up the hill and endure long queues in the main Post Office.

"Only about one in five households on the Marsh Estate have access to a car and the Post Office should take this into account."

Group leader Cllr Emily Heath, representing Scotforth, wants people who will be incon-venienced to object, saying public opinion has forced the Post Office to change its mind on many rural branch closures.

"People need a Post Office within easy walking distance, whether they live in a town or village," she says.

County Cllr Jonathan Sear has called on the Government to take responsibility, saying decisions such as the direct payment of benefits have hit Post Offices hard.

"It is high time there was funding available to help move Post Offices into shops and other premises so running costs can be reduced without removing a vital service."

To object write to Eddie Herbert, National Consultation Team, PO Box 641, St Albans, AL1 5XN.