A TOWN centre location has been retained for Oswaldtwistle Post Office, it has been proposed.

Councillors and Hyndburn MP Graham Jones had expressed concern when it emerged that the central post office was shutting down at McColls, in Union Road.

Mr Jones and Cllr Sara Britcliffe, of St Andrew's ward, were worried that customers would face a trek to another branch in Thwaites Road, if no suitable convenient alternative could be found.

Post Office bosses have now announced that operations could be switching from McColls to Thrifties, further along Union Road.

Christine Marshall, their area network change manager, said: "We are making it easier for customers to get their cash, send and collect their mail and do their banking because we know how important these services are to local residents.

"We are confident that this vibrant new-style Post Office at the heart of the local community will meet customer needs."

The official consultation into the move will run until July 5 and views can be left online at www.postofficeviews.co.uk, using the branch code 358427.

Submissions can also be made via e-mail to comments@postoffice.co.uk, a phone line, 03452 660115, or Freepost.