Village Post Office owners put business up for sale

[TrueBlueTerrier]

http://www.dissexpress.co.uk/news/lates ... -1-5815416" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

After 15 years’ behind the counter, East Harling Post Office owners Gary and Josie Baker plan to step down to spend more time with family.

They have put their business in Market Street up for sale and hope to hand over to a new owner by the end of this year.

Mr Baker said the couple now had grandchildren who they were keen to spend more time with: “We have enjoyed running our Post Office but now want to move on.”

He said the business would be “an ideal addition to an existing retail business or as a new venture for someone hardworking and enterprising.” The Bakers originally ran the Post Office from their home, but three years ago moved it to renovated standalone premises near their house. The premises are being offered freehold but a leasehold deal would also be considered.

“We have a small retail section selling mainly pet food, cards and a small amount of stationery in addition to the Post Office and sorting office,” Mr Baker said. Except passports, the branch offered everything else. “Car licensing, insurance - everything that a large Post Office like Diss does.” Mr Baker said it served 2,800 homes in East Harling, plus surrounding villages and a strong local business community.

“East Harling is considered an expanding village. The people have always been supportive and we have loyal staff and fantastic postmen.” It was, he said, an ideal opportunity for younger blood to move the branch towards the new modernised model being introduced across the Post Office network.

For information contact deborah.fane@postoffice.co.uk or call 0845 2668790.