COUNCILLORS representing the Hambleton district of the Yorkshire Dales are the latest to have added their voices to the campaign to save post offices in the region from closure.

Consultation on plans for offices in Cleveland, South Durham and Richmondshire could mean the closing of Post Offices in Seamer, Brompton and at North End in Northallerton and the offices in Osmotherley and Swainby replaced with outreach services.

The changes are part of UK wide cuts proposed by the Post Office Network which would see closure of up to 2,500 branches and the introduction of around 500 outreach services to mitigate the impact of the closures.

In Hambleton it also affects offices at Sowerby, Leeming Bar, Crakehall, Linton on Ouse, Tollerton, Borrowby, Carthorpe and Kirby Wiske.

“These plans go against our policy to improve the quality of life for Hambleton’s residents and visitors – cutting services in rural areas makes life far more difficult especially for the elderly members of our population,” said Council Leader, Councillor Arthur Barker.

“We believe that the proposals will further erode the sustainability of small rural communities and cause real hardship. Maintaining rural post offices and shops is vital in maintaining rural communities. These plans go against the government’s objectives to support rural regeneration, reduce rural isolation, protect village services and reduce the need to travel.”