THE new-look Staplegrove Post Office has been officially opened by Taunton MP Jeremy Browne.

The layout of the post office and shop in Manor Road has changed, with two screened post office positions and an extra serving point at the retail counter.

New services like car tax renewal, currency exchange and drop and go mail, are now available.

Most post office transactions can be made during shop opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 7am-8pm, and Sunday, 8am-8pm.

Mr Browne said at Thursday’s ribbon-cutting ceremony: “The longer opening hours, Sunday opening and extra post office till make it far more convenient for customers to visit and to be served quicker.

“I am delighted to be here today to congratulate postmaster Kalpesh Patel on his vital community role and to see the big improvements at this branch which will benefit both residents and local businesses.”

Mr Patel added: “Wow! is the reaction of customers when they walk through the door as everything has changed.

“It now looks so modern and brighter and the new layout is much better. The addition of car tax renewal has been very popular because there is lots of free parking outside and the Sunday opening and longer hours make it far more convenient to visit.”