AN MP has cut the ribbon during a ceremony to mark the reopening of a new-look post office.

MP Grahame Morris joined owners James and Caroline Dobbie at the ceremony this morning at Deneside Post Office, Seaham.

Mr Morris said: "I welcomed the news that Deneside Post Office was to be modernised and am delighted to be here today to congratulate James and Caroline on their hard work and to formally open the new branch.

"The Post Office is vital to the community in and around Seaham and I'm sure the new improved office, and the longer opening hours, will be warmly welcomed by all of my constituents."

The branch will be open from 8:30am to 5.30pm Monday to Thursday and 9am to 5.30pm on Friday and Saturday.

James Dobbie said: “We are delighted to have had the opportunity to open the new branch and we are very pleased to be officially launching it today for the community.

He added, “I’d also like to thank Grahame Morris MP for taking time from his busy schedule to come here today. Last but not least we would like to thank the local community for their continued support and use of the branch.”