A SUB-POSTMASTER who has run a popular Ramsbotttom Post Office for the past eight years, today spoke of his three year battle to keep the facility open.

The Shuttleworth Post Office, in Whalley Road, is now planned to close as part of a national program me to shut about 3,000 urban branches.

David Cope, sub-postmaster, said the closure has been in the pipeline for three years because of falling customer numbers. He said: "I've tried to make a go of things, but it's not possible to continue.

"I consulted with the Post Office 12 months ago and made the decision, which I feel is in my best interest. Local people are upset at the news, but it is just something that we have to accept."

The closure has been put down to increased running costs as well as the Department for Work and Pensions moving benefit payments from passbooks to bank accounts.

Eddie Herbert, from the Post Office, today said: "Proposals to close post offices are not made without considerable research and discussion, so we are anxious that customers and all relevant organisations understand why we consider it necessary to reduce the size of our network.

"The harsh reality is that many urban offices are struggling to survive because there are too many branches for the amount of business.

"In the case of Shuttleworth, a number of incidents has prompted the sub-postmaster to want to leave."

Mr Herbert feels the closure would improve the long-term prospects of the neighbouring offices -- Ramsbottom's King Street and Nuttall Lane.

He went on: "We are confident they could cope with the extra business and, therefore, we are proposing to close Shuttleworth Post Office permanently."

The community are now being asked for their opinions.

Mr Herbert added: "We are keen to hear of any concerns customers and others might have about the closure and about the the services provided by the nearest, alternative offices before we make the final decision."

A one-month consultation within the community will lead to a decision whether to close the branch in April.

Those wanting to put forward any ideas or concerns are asked to contact the Post Office by February 28 by contacting the helpline on 08457 223344, or writing to the National Consultation Team, PO Box 641, St Albans, AL1 5XN.