Campaigners aim to secure post office future following death

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Campaigners aim to secure post office future following postmaster's death

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COMMUNITY leaders in Nuthall are campaigning to secure the future of their post office following the death of its sub-postmaster.

Temple Nuthall Post Office, in Nottingham Road, has been closed since January 31 after the death of its boss, Rob Jones.

Mr Jones, 54, who had been diagnosed with cancer, has been described as a figurehead of the community.

Nuthall Parish Council presented him with a residents' award shortly before he died.



Parish council chairman Paul Simpson said: "Rob was a pillar of the Nuthall community, providing a vital service to its residents and taking an active interest in the village.

"Until recently, Rob looked after the speed trolley which shows motorists how fast they are going, putting it out most days along the busy Nottingham Road. He was also the key holder to the parish council notice board opposite his post office and was always willing to help."

Nuthall county councillor Philip Owen said: "Rob will be greatly missed.

"He helped and supported the parish council and was particularly valuable as he was able to listen to what people had to say through his role as sub-postmaster."

Mr Owen said he and his wife, Nuthall borough and parish councillor Jill Owen, were now attempting to secure new management for the post office.

Nuthall's other post office in Kimberley Road was one of a number across Notts closed by Post Office Ltd in 2008.

Mr Owen said: "We certainly do not want to lose this post office. It was a thriving business and it would be missed by both locals and passing trade."

Mrs Owen said the councillors had held talks with Broxtowe MP Anna Soubry over the need to get the Nottingham Road post office re-opened.

She said: "We are liaising with Anna to try to retain post office facilities in the Horsendale area of Nuthall after the sad death of Rob."

Miss Soubry said: "There has been speculation about the future of the post office and I have contacted Royal Mail about what happens next."

Post Office Ltd has informed Mr Owen that it was looking at providing a service in Nuthall as soon as possible.

In a letter to him, the company's field change adviser, Dave Smith, said: "I can assure you that we will continue to work to find a solution that will provide a Post Office service to the Nuthall community."