TYTHERINGTON Post Office has been given its date for closure despite continuing efforts to keep it open.

It was announced in April that the Tytherington branch was earmarked for closure as part of the Post Office network's restructuring, but despite the campaigning of local people, it has been told to close its doors on Friday, September 5.

However, this date may not be the end of the branch because of frantic negotiations taking place between the Post Office and representatives including Northavon MP Steve Webb.

Mr Webb said: "I have continued to work with Roger Unwin, chairman of the parish council, and Jeremy Evans, chairman of the community shop, and we have had a series of meetings with people from the Post Office headquarters.

"There is a desire to keep it open but it will involve an annual financial commitment.

"Unfortunately it is inconceivable that all this will be achieved and in place by the closing date, a period of closure is inevitable but we haven't given up hope.

"Just because the post office will close does not mean it cannot be reopened."

Roger Unwin, chairman of Tytherington Parish Council, said: "We are exploring all possibilities for continuing to provide post office services for the village."

Tytherington Post Office is based in the volunteer-led community shop in the village and has been serving residents for 10 years. When it closes next month villagers wanting to access post office services will have to travel to either Cromhall or Thornbury.

Debby Brock, manager of the Tytherington Community Shop, said: "We are all gutted about the closure and hoping as a community we can keep the post office open.

"It is the older people I feel sorry for who will now have to travel to get their pensions."

A spokesman from the Post Office said: "We are currently in discussions with the local MP regarding the expression of interest of providing local funding for a local branch.

"However, the Tytherington branch is earmarked for closure on Friday, September 5."