Bengeworth Post Office is unique and needs to stay, this was the message residents, civic leaders and MPs had for Post Office officials when they met on Friday to debate its future.

At a well attended event at the Northwick Hotel on Waterside, in Evesham, post-mistress Pearl Bennet faced representatives from Post Office Ltd as she and nearly 200 supporters argued for the retention of the popular community Post Office in the face of forced closure.

Tony Jones, a regional development manager for Post Office Ltd, was informed of all the qualities that made the Bengeworth office unique, including its use by the area's large elderly population, its well run, personal and award-winning service, the large catchment area it serves as well as it being the only banking facility on that side of the river.

This is crucial in times of flooding when Bengeworth is completely cut off from the rest of the town.

Speaking at the meeting Vale MP Peter Luff said: "It's doing well, it's thriving. Post Office Ltd themselves recognise Bengeworth is a remarkable office and have given it new business; earlier this year it was given Euros and made into and express branch.

"Advantage West Midlands, who are responsible for regeneration, have even written to say it should be saved. This is unprecedented and I believe we should continue to try to save Bengeworth Post Office on its merits."

Mr Luff urged residents to make their views known before the end of consultation next week by writing to Post Office Ltd with examples of how the Bengeworth office was unique and why it should be saved.

Mrs Bennet was evidently touched by the show of support she received and which mirrored the kind of public support seen in the protest march through Evesham on Saturday.

Fighting back the tears she said: "I'd like to thank everyone for attending, I hope Post Office Ltd can understand the depth of feeling [surrounding the possible closure].

"I truly believe the Bengeworth office is a service for the whole community and is a central part of Bengeworth. We are the people's Post Office, let's hope now they start listening to the people."