THE Post Office has announced plans to move its Pucklechurch branch.

The village’s Post Office will be relocated to within the News Shop, at 3 Shortwood Road, the company has said.

The move from the branch’s former home at 1 Westerleigh Road follows a six-week consultation process with local people.

The relocation is necessary because the current sub-postmistress has tendered her resignation, which will mean the current premises will no longer be available for Post Office use.

A date for the relocation is currently being finalised and will be confirmed soon.

Post Office regional network manager for Wales and the West of England, Tony Jones, said the relocation would help to secure the branch’s future.

He said: “We understand how important having a Post Office is to residents in Pucklechurch and we are confident that the Post Office local service will meet the needs of the local community and secure services for the future.

“The Post Office had made a commitment to no more permanent branch closure programmes.”

The new opening hours for Pucklechurch Post Office after relocation will be from Monday to Friday (9am–5.30pm) and Saturday (9am–12.30pm).

The Post Office said the same range of services will continue to be available and customers will still be able to collect benefits in cash.

The new premises will have level access with a wide door for disabled people and will be fitted with a hearing loop and space for a wheelchair.