VILLAGERS in a Suffolk village will see their post office replaced by a mobile service four days a week, it was revealed today.

Richard Cornwell

VILLAGERS in a Suffolk village will see their post office replaced by a mobile service four days a week, it was revealed today.

The Nacton community has been in limbo since the beginning of the year when 67 post offices were axed in Essex and Suffolk. The village was told its would close but there would be an alternative service.

Post Office Ltd today began a six-week public consultation on its proposals to close the current sub post office in the village shop, Orwell Stores - winner of the EADT Local Shop of the Year competition in 2005 - and run an outreach service instead.

The plan is for a post office service to operate from a mobile vehicle next to the shop in The Street, Nacton, from 8.30am to 10.30am on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.

Officials say the same range of services will continue to be available and customers can still collect benefits in cash using the everyday banking services or Post Office card account.

A Post Office spokesman said: “In February, following the public consultation on the area plan for East Essex and Suffolk, Post Office Ltd confirmed its intention to replace the branch in Nacton with an outreach facility.

“The six-week public consultation launched today seeks the views on the possible options for the outreach service in Nacton.

“The decision to replace the existing branch is not being reconsulted.”

He said there was a step into the outreach vehicle but access will be available for wheelchair users via an electronic tailgate.

”Feedback from the local community will be welcomed during the six-week consultation and look forward to receiving comments on the days and hours being suggested,” he added.

The public consultation closes on September 8.

People should send their views to the National Consultation Team, Post Office Ltd, FREEPOST CONSULTATION TEAM - no stamp required - or by email to consultation@postoffice.co.uk