Pubs to run UK post offices
More than 500 pubs are being earmarked to run post offices inside them.
The move would offset the Royal Mail’s axing of 2,500 post offices over the next two years.
Industry Secretary Alistair Darling sees pubs as ideal locations for “outreach post offices” to be set up in remote communities.
Royal Mail chiefs have been involved in talks with campaigners to match pub sites with areas where closures are likely.
The Pub Is The Hub coordinator John Longdon said: “It’s great the Government has recognised the role pubs can play in the community.”
Hilary Scott, who runs a post office from her pub in Wistow, North Yorks, said: “The post office brings in new people – our pub has become a real focal point.”
The Communication Workers Union said they are confident a secret ballot of their 130,000 members will show a huge vote for strike action on Thursday.