TAUNTON'S main post office is opening in temporary premises from today (Friday, October 22).

The service has relocated from its home in the former County Stores, in North Street, to a unit in Canon Street.

Staff have been in training ahead of welcoming the first customers in their new office from 11am today.

The move came about as Patrick Hawkins, the owner of the North Street building, is carrying out work there to convert it into a car and motorbike museum.

Mr Hawkins footed the bill of fitting out the Canon Street unit, which he also owns, amid fears the main post office would otherwise close.

Taunton Post Office manager Lois Lamb is delighted with the new premises.

She said: "It's a post office on wheels. The premises are really nice.

"The new equipment makes it all look nice and smart.

"We're really grateful to Patrick for everything he's done for us.

"We're looking forward to seeing some old faces in our new home and hopefully some new ones as well."

READ MORE: Businessman Patrick Hawkins saves Taunton Post Office.

Elaine Ashcroft, who has overseen the move, said: "We're absolutely delighted with the new location.

"The move is exciting and we're committed to having a post office in Taunton.

"Everyone is looking forward to the lovely new office which will make working conditions easier."

Meanwhile, the Post Office is looking into finding a permanent home for the county town's main post office.

And it is opening a local post office in WH Smith on Tuesday (October 26).

READ MORE: Local post office to open in WH Smith in Taunton.