THE RE-OPENING of a seven-day-a-week Post Office in Froxfield village shop has been given the stamp of approval by East Hampshire MP Damian Hinds.

The full time Post Office in the store on the Dellfield estate closed 10 years ago and until recently Post Office services were only available on two mornings a week in the shop.

Since 2008 East Hampshire District Council (EHDC) has leased the store to Howard Beavis, but its viability has always been an issue, now Mr Beavis will gain added income through running the Post Office.

Mr Hinds said: “I’m delighted that Howard has become postmaster and is able to provide this important service for Froxfield.

“The extended opening hours and range of banking services means that the service will be a great help to the local community.”

Mr Bevis added: “Having this facility available means an increased footfall in the shop and I will also receive a commission on any post office transactions.

“The economic climate for village stores is very tough at the moment due to online shopping and the supermarkets.

“So having this post office facility is very important for the financial future of the business.”

EHDC councillor for Froxfield Nick Drew added: “The Post Office will be absolutely invaluable to the village and the surrounding area and will encourage a great deal of custom to the shop, so it’s a win all round.”

Post Office and some banking services will be offered from an open plan style service point, integrated into the shop counter.

The Post Office will now open the same hours as the shop – Monday to Friday, from 7.30am to 6pm, on Saturdays from 8.30am to 5.30pm and on Sundays from 8.30am to 1pm.