Residents given bad news after Post Office on Sodbury High Street remains closed

The office closed in November, with no explanation for residents.

The Gazette contacted Post Office HQ for comment, there confirmed that there had been issues with the operation of the service.

"We understand and appreciate how much communities rely on our services and we sincerely apologise to customers for any inconvenience caused by the temporary closure of Chipping Sodbury Post Office due to operational reasons," a spokesperson said.

"We are currently finalising plans to re-open the branch around 4 December. During the temporary closure customers can access Post Office services at Yate Sodbury and Abbotswood branches.”

The date has now passed and residents have still been left with no access to vital services, including older generations unable to pick up pension payments.

The Post Office have now updated the public, confirming that the date had been pushed back.

"We had hoped to have reopened the branch with an interim operator while we continued to seek a permanent solution, however due to unforeseen circumstances, this has not yet been possible and therefore, unfortunately, I cannot confirm whether Post Office services will be restored to Chipping Sodbury before Christmas," a spokesperson said.

"Looking after a nationwide network of Post Office services, we have a responsibility to make sure every service makes the best possible use of resources, while ensuring that customers can still access our products and services. I can assure you that we will continue to work to find a solution that will provide a Post Office service to the community.

"We are aware of the importance the Post Office plays in the local community and would like to thank you and our customers for their patience on this matter. We will write to you again once we have any news about our plans for future service provision."

The branch is located in Cotswold Vintners on the High Street, the shop is still open.