CUSTOMERS of a rural sub-post office are so impressed with the service they receive that their votes have led to success in a national awards scheme.
The office, at Toft Hill, near Bishop Auckland, is run by Sheila Mulgrew, who as regional winner in the rural category has won a plaque and £750 in vouchers after impressing judges .
Mrs Mulgrew was given a pile of forms to display, which her customers willingly filled in and returned.
"The number of votes is measured against the size of the outlet," she told the D&S Times.
Her premises were also visited by a mystery shopper who reported back to judges.
As well as all the usual post office services, Mrs Mulgrew offers many extras. She has computer facilities with internet access, raises funds for the local school, sells books in aid of the local hospice, recycles shoes for the Variety Club and sells Fair Trade goods from the Third World.
Mrs Mulgrew will now go forward to the national final next month.
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