A VILLAGE post office has reopened after being closed for nine months.

The previous branch in Aysgarth, Wensleydale, closed last August when the sub-postmistress resigned.

On Monday, a post office was opened in the village by Steve and Cath Cartridge, who already run Yoredale House guesthouse and Kitty's Tea Room in the village.

The couple have converted the former guest lounge of the bed and breakfast into the post office.

Mr Cartridge said: "I think if a village loses its post office, it's another nail in its coffin.

"We've had a great response from villagers since we opened, especially the old who don't have a car. It's been a bit of a trek for them to get their pension."

The branch will open on Mondays and Thursdays, from 11am to 5pm. In addition to the postal service, basic groceries and local produce will be for sale.