A REFURBISHMENT package is being delivered to Shipston Post Office this spring which is not only providing up-to-date modernisation, but more than doubling the current number of opening hours.

Once the work is completed, the new interior will include four counter positions including two new style open-plan counters, one secure fortress position and a combi counter where the post office terminal will sit alongside the retail till.

The move is part of a major modernisation programme across the Post Office network designed to make it easier for customers to do business, through longer opening hours and modern open-plan environments.

No date has yet been set for the refurbishment which will mean the service closing for at least two weeks, but once completed and reopened the new hours will be Monday to Saturday, 7am to 10pm and 9am to 9pm on Sunday.

Alan Ridoutt, area manager said: “We know how important post office services are to residents in Shipston and we are confident that this vibrant, modern post office at the heart of the community will be popular.

“The modernisation is part of a major government investment programme that is enabling us to continue investing in the post office network and to map out a bold growth strategy through to the end of the decade.”

Initially it was expected the work would take place in February, however, a spokesman for the Post Office said new dates were being looked at because the Co-operative, which runs the post office, was looking at improvement work itself.

He told the Journal: “The refurbishment has been delayed so that it may potentially coincide with a refurbishment of the whole premises. Post Office and Co-op are reassessing dates at the moment. We hope to be able to update customers soon.”

Shipston Town mayor, Councillor Philip Vial welcomed the extended service and hoped the eventual temporary closure would not create difficulties. He said: "I am delighted about the additional hours that are being offered, but as with the many residents who have contacted me in the past few days I am concerned that there will be no service in Shipston for the two weeks of the refurbishment. This will create problems for residents and businesses alike."