Post office returns to Belmont after 12 year absence

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More than a decade had gone by since Belmont was able to boast its own post office.

But for residents of the South Sutton village, this was 10 years too long.

Since 1890, three different sites had played host to a post office in town.

But with the closure of the last branch in 2005, the century-old streak was brought to an end.

Years later it was made clear to the Belmont & South Cheam Residents Association (BSCRA) that the people wanted their post back.

So the group campaigned to anyone and everyone who would listen in an effort to revive the post.


"We approached several shop-keepers up and down Station Road to see if they were interested in hosting a post office branch and the one who was most enthusiastic and who in our view had the most suitable premises, was Lisa Kear in The Pet Stop," BSCRA chairman Peter Mattey said.

"Accordingly, Lisa applied through normal channels to open a branch but disappointingly was turned down.

"We asked for help from the local authority, our local councillors and our MP, all of whom were very supportive, but to no avail."

A last ditch attempt was then penned as the group wrote directly to senior management in the Post Office.

"We emphasised the fantastic community spirit that we have here in the village for a wide range of activities," Mr Mattey said.

"This included one of the best attended Remembrance Sunday parades in the borough and the fantastic Belmont Festival which attracts more than 6,000 festival go-ers with its heart right here."

Then after 18 months worth of meetings and campaigning the news that everyone was hoping for finally came.

"We were over the moon when we heard that our proposal had been reconsidered and that, subject to due diligence checks, a Post Office branch would be re-opened," Mr Mattey said.

"The branch tentatively opened three weeks ago and I am absolutely delighted that we are officially opening the branch today (April 20)."

Now Mr Mattey has one request.

"All that needs to be done now is for everyone to use our new branch and make it a fantastic success."