A FORMER postmaster is hoping to convert a village's former post office into a house.

Robert Wilson has applied to Darlington Borough Council for planning permission for change of use of the premises on West Green, in Heighington.

Mr Wilson ran the post office and shop for more than five years before it closed in July last year because the business had become uneconomical. The service has re-opened in the village hall.

"I currently live in the flat above but am wanting to convert the old post office into a house for me," he said.

The proposal will go before the council's planning committee before the end of the year.