PEOPLE in Stokesley have welcomed the news that their post office is to be relocated three doors away from its present position in the High Street.

There was concern that the service might be lost altogether after sub-postmaster, Ian Mundell, announced he was retiring and selling the shop.

He ran the post office for 26 years, but the new owners did not wish to carry on with that side of the business.

The Post Office has announced that the branch will move to the Quality Fayre supermarket, just 20yds away, from June 15.

Gayle Laverick, retail line manager for the Post Office, said: "Our main reason for supporting this move is to safeguard post office services in the area. The move will also enable us to enhance existing facilities."

She said customers would benefit from longer opening hours, improved access for the disabled and mothers with prams and pushchairs, together with a modern, purpose-built counter.

North Yorkshire county councillor Caroline Seymour, who represents Stokesley, said: "It's a good thing for the town, because we need our post office and it's really good that they have recognised that.

"It is a good location, being just three doors down from where it has been, and I am pleased that we are going to keep our post office, with longer opening hours."

The new opening hours will be 9am-5.30, Monday to Friday, and 9am-12.30 on Saturdays.