A SOMERSET MP is fighting to save a Post Office after it was revealed the shop that houses the service could close.

Co-op, on The Avenue in Minehead which has a Post Office inside, has announced it is 'considering options' for the site, but nothing has yet been finalised.

Bridgwater and West Somerset MP Ian Liddell-Grainger says being able to use a Post Office is still an 'essential service' for many.

Staff at the Co-op store were told other options were being considered for the site.

And as Co-op is thinking about new proposals for The Avenue store, they have provided a 12 month notice period for the Post Office, so plans can be made to consider the provision of services in Minehead.

A spokesperson for Co-op said: “The Co-op is moving forward with a clear purpose and momentum and while this often involves opening new stores, we also regularly review our existing sites.

"Co-op is considering options for its Minehead site and, is committed to retaining a viable food store in the community.”

Mr Liddell-Grainger said the Post Office will have to start making arrangements 'immediately' to ensure services will continue in the town.

“Minehead people cannot be left reliant on the sub-post office at Alcombe, which only has two serving positions, both shared with a shop,” he said.

“The truth is that while the Post Office, like the banks, would much prefer us to conduct all our business online there are some things – such as the simple posting of a parcel – that still require physical attendance at a post office counter.

“And in an area with one of the highest proportions of pensioners in the country a lot of people still do not use the internet and have no intention of ever doing so.

“Pinning down the Post Office to keep it providing counter services has been particularly challenging in other places such as Bridgwater.

"But I shall be taking up the developing situation in Minehead with the Minister to make sure that in the coming upheaval local people will still be able to access the full range of postal services.”

No final proposals for re-development of the site on The Avenue have yet been submitted.