RESIDENTS in Christchurch have put pen to paper to show their support for a local postmaster fighting to save his post office from the threat of closure.

With the seven-week consultation period coming to an end on Monday, owner of the Londis Stour Road post office, Stephen Shewry, says more than 1,600 people have signed a petition objecting to the closure.

And with further written objections from residents in Riverland Court, a sheltered housing complex in Stour Road, along with objections from two other sheltered accommodation developments, Homestour House and Homelands, he said the support has been overwhelming.

Stephen, who has been running the post office and shop for six years, said: "We were devastated when we found out about the proposed closure. It came as a bit of a shock.

"But all our customers have been really supportive.

"We're stuck between three other post offices which is probably why they've pinpointed us but for our elderly residents living close-by it's a convenient amenity.

"Many of them come into the shop, use the post office, have a quick chat and say they'll see us again next week. It's a real asset and I think one that will be sadly lost, should the closure go ahead."

Stephen added: "More than anything it will make a difference to the community more than the business. We have some plans in the pipeline to keep ourselves involved with our local people but they enjoy coming into the shop.

"Some of them remember the days the post office was here more than 50 years ago - so there is a bit of history here."

A spokesperson for the Post Office said: "The six week public consultation, during which we invited feedback on our proposals for Dorset ended on Monday.

"We would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to contact us or who attended meetings to comment on our proposals.

"The feedback from members of the public and local representatives is very useful. We will now take a few weeks to review all the information we have received before reaching final decisions on the future of the Post Office network in Dorset."