A POST Office branch is to close for a week while modernisation work takes place.

The branch at The Village Store in Front Street, Sacriston is undergoing a major refurbishment later this month.

The office will close at 5.30pm on Wednesday, April 15 and reopen at 1pm on Wednesday, April 22.

The new-look outlet will have three serving positions and will be open for longer hours. The branch itself will be open from 8.30am to 5.30pm on Mondays and from 9am to 5.30pm Tuesday to Saturday.

Selected Post Office services will also be available from the shop during opening hours, which are from 7am to 7.30pm Monday to Saturday and from 8am to 7pm on Sundays.

During the week-long closure, customers are asked to use their nearest Post Office branches in Front Street, Edmondsley or Quebec Street, Langley Park.

Anne Clarke, Post Office area manager, said: “We are confident that this vibrant new-style Post Office at the heart of the community will meet customer needs.

“This modernisation is part of a major investment programme, the largest in the history of the Post Office and will secure services for the future.

“The investment marks a commitment to no more branch closure programmes."