Post office services are moving to another location

The shutters are coming down for the last time at the post office at the News on the Green store in Kittle which is operated by John and Lynda Mizen.

Nearly 800 people signed a petition calling on Post Office Limited managers not to penalise the couple and many others wrote individual letters.

But the company says because the Mizens continued to shut between 1300BST and 1400BST they were in breach of their contract and now an alternative location is being sought in the village for a new post office.

We wish whoever is going to take it on all the best - we have no problem with them as it is a business decision and our beef is with the Post Office John Mizen

The couple will continue to run the confectionery, tobacco and newsagents' shop on the premises.

Mr Mizen said: "I had the auditors in today and all the stock is being taken away tomorrow."

He said he and his wife were "devastated" at losing the business they had run for the past three years.

"I shall greatly miss the customer contact," he added.

"I would like to say a great big thank-you to everyone who has supported us.

Appointment

"I just hope they are not inconvenienced too much and the new offices open as soon as possible.

"We wish whoever is going to take it on all the best - we have no problem with them as it is a business decision and our beef is with the Post Office."

Gower MP Mr Caton wanted the government to review the case.

But the protests failed to persuade the Post Office to change its mind.

Angela Van Den Bogerd, head of area community network said: "We regret the inevitable interruption of the post office services.

"However we are pleased to confirm that we have made an offer of appointment to a prospective sub postmaster.

"We would like to apologise to customers for any inconvenience caused.

"We are working hard to minimise the interruption and to restore normal service.