'If we shut it will be devastating for the town...'

TO the 5,000 residents of Tenby their local Post Office and store is a community lifeline but for owners Vince and Fiona Malone, left, it is a struggle to survive.

- By Giles Sheldrick Chief Reporter

Their operation has become a labour of love without which the South West Wales harbour and resort could wither and die.

So the couple, still reeling from damaging National Insurance hikes, are dumbfounded that branches like theirs could be axed.

Labour is consulting on whether to end the need to keep at least 11,500 Post Offices open. If it decides to scrap the minimum level - introduced by the Tory-led coalition in 2010 after Labour oversaw thousands of cuts to the network - it could prove to be ruinous for many communities.

Fiona, 53, said: "It feels as if there is just no recognition for the services we provide to the town.

"The nearest bank is a 30-minute drive away.

"If we were to close it would be absolutely devastating for the town.