POST office customers are being asked to put their stamp of approval on plans to move services 100 yards across a town centre.

Post Office Counters is quitting its old building in Tenter Street, Bishop Auckland, to move to more modern premises in Victoria Road.

This means they will be able to provide customers with a car park and offer better wheelchair access for disabled people.

The organisation says the move will enable it to give people a much better service.

A spokesman for Post Office Counters said yesterday: "The relocation will have major benefits for customers, including car parking and having bus services close by. A fully refurbished post office will improve access and facilities, and it is closer to the town shops and banks."

Residents will be asked for their views before the move goes ahead, in accordance with a code of practice agreed with the industry's watchdog the Post Office Users National Council.

Margaret Jones, who represents the Bishop Auckland town ward on Wear Valley District Council, said: "I won't be objecting to the move as long as they retain all the present services. If they do go, I would like to see the new premises equipped for disabled people. At least it will still be in the centre of the town."

After the move, the Tenter Street premises, which was built for the Post Office more than 50 years ago, will be sold.

A Royal Mail delivery office moved from the street in December 1998 to a new building off Bob Hardisty Drive.