A POST office will soon be delivering better services after modernisation plans have been given the stamp of approval.

Following the closure of a nearby branch, Coalpit Heath Post Office has struggled with massive increases in customers and its owners have long wanted to expand the shop front and postal counter.

Now expansion plans have been signed and sealed, meaning staff will be able to cope with the influx.

Sub-postmistress Sarah Davis and her husband Stephen intend to create more space in the Church Road shop, allowing them to offer more services and products. The couple will also change their opening hours to become more flexible for villagers.

In November, Frampton Cotterell Post Office shut its doors for the last time despite massive opposition from residents, councillors and Northavon MP Steve Webb.

The Post Office said dwindling customer numbers meant the branch was no longer viable and people were encouraged to use the Coalpit Heath office instead.

South Gloucestershire councillors last week unanimously agreed to let the modernisation plans go ahead. They will include improvements to disabled access and it is hoped they will be completed by Easter.

The couple is thrilled by the news.

Mr Davis said: "Sarah and I bought the post office in June last year, knowing that the whole premises needed modernising.

"We listened to ideas from our customers and from professionals, and submitted our plans to the council for approval. The plans will enhance the frontage, and provide a new level access for disabled people, as well as providing an extra sales area, which will allow us to diversify.

"We were thrilled when the council planning committee voted unanimously in favour of our plans and we are now confident that this will secure the post office in Coalpit Heath well into the future."

Mr Webb, who supported the couple's application, said the planning permission represented good news for post offices.

He said: "With so many stories about post offices closing, it makes a pleasant change to celebrate one that is growing and hoping to secure a long-term future.

"I welcome the fact that Sarah and Stephen want to modernise their premises and improve their service to local people, and I hope that the new office has a bright future."