YATE has a new supermarket express store but has lost one of its post offices.

Tesco officially unveiled its new express shop at the Neighbourhood Centre, Brimsham Park on Monday.

The One Stop Shop, which previously housed a post office on the site, was closed before Christmas after the supermarket bought out the convenience store chain. Tesco immediately announced it would close the Brimsham Park post office, much to the horror of residents and Northavon MP Steve Webb.

A petition was launched by pensioner Gordon Cox to save the branch, which residents called their "lifeline".

Despite Tesco's hunt for a new outlet for the post office, none was found. The supermarket chain also offered financial help to a new sub postmaster and ran bus services from Brimsham Park to Yate's main post office in the shopping centre during the Christmas period.

Tesco says it needs the room in the shop to provide quality products on customer's doorsteps. The search is continuing for a suitable site for a post office.

The express store was opened by Peter Iles, chief officer for Age Concern South Gloucestershire. The charity is Tesco's nominated beneficiary this year and £500 was handed over to Mr Iles.

Site manager John Taffe said: "Age Concern South Gloucestershire has a crucial role to play in this community and we are delighted to be able to offer them our support."

Mr Iles said: "We would like to thank the new Tesco Express store for their generous donation. The support of our local businesses and community is essential to ensure that we can continue to provide care and support to older people living throughout the area."

The store will open between 7am and 10pm seven days a week.