Post Office set to offer a slew of new services

BRITAIN'S beleaguered high streets have been handed a major boost after the boss of the Post Office promised to "strengthen" its services next year.

- BY GILES SHELDRICK

As a slew of businesses close in the wake of Chancellor Rachel Reeves' successive tax-grabbing Budgets, the country's 11,500 Post Office branches are a lifeline to millions. And next year the network is poised to bolster its offering.

Backing this newspaper's 'Save Our High Streets' campaign, which champions the heart and soul of towns and cities across the UK, Post Office CEO Neil Brocklehurst, said: “A post office plays a key role in creating and maintaining a vibrant local high street. Postmasters provide essential face-to-face services, from cash withdrawals and deposits to bill payments and, of course, posting Christmas gifts.”

He added: “The Express has championed the Post Office this year and I want to thank the paper and its readers for supporting their local branches. In the New Year, we'll look to strengthen the Post Office’s presence on the high street with new products and services, working closely with the Government as it sets out its plans for the future of our organisation.

“In the meantime, I wish Express readers a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year on behalf of the Post Office and our thousands of local postmasters.”

As scores of banks, building societies and shops abandon towns and cities there is growing concern the shopping heart of communities will stop beating.