Post office closure 'tragedy'

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THE threatened closure of a village post office has been labelled a "tragedy" by older residents.

The post office in Fore Street, Silverton, near Exeter, is set to shut with its service being moved to the village Spar shop.

The move has been widely criticised by the village's large elderly population who have nothing but praise for the current post office staff.

Stan Chilcott, who lives in Silverton and is chairman of the village's Over 60s Club , said: "It really is a tragedy that this is happening . The post office is a lifeline for many people in the village. It is very well used by the elderly residents who I would say make up two thirds of Silverton's residents.

"For some, like me, it will also mean having to walk twice as far to reach the post office and I am disabled.

"The lady behind the counter is absolutely marvellous and will always help customers who may have problems or are short-sighted and so on. I just hope she can retain her job."

Mr Chilcott said other pensioners were also worried about losing privacy for the customers, seating for the elderly as well as room for wheelchair access. One customer, who asked not to be named, added: " The Spar shop offers nothing except extended hours. There will be no privacy as the service will be conducted from the main shop counter.