A VILLAGE post office is to close its doors for good next month after a deal to keep it open fell through.

The Post Office had announced that the Foulridge branch would remain open when subpostmistress Barbara Bradbury, 61, retired.

But, in fact, Mrs Bradbury was unable to reach an agreement for someone to take over the business at the current premises in Parkinson Street and the doors will close for good on February 14.

Foulridge residents will have to travel to Kelbrook, Colne or Barnoldswick to access Post Office services.

Mrs Bradbury, who has run the business for 12 years, said: "I will be very sad to go, but my health isn't getting any better and this could drag on forever.

"I was trying to agree for someone to come in and run the business from here temporarily and the Post Office jumped the gun a bit by announcing it would stay open. In fact, we couldn't reach an agreement and I will be closing on February 14.

"It's disappointing for me that nowhere else could be found in the village, not least because I will want to use a Post Office myself.

"But it's a very uncertain business and there's little incentive for people to get involved.

"I have really enjoyed the job and have got to know many people in the village.

"It's a really nice middle-of-the-road Post Office, and it's interesting to work in a village because you get the social aspect and I'm looking forward to being retired here, because it's a lovely place and very quiet."

A spokesman for the Post Office said: "We had thought we were going to avert a closure, but now the existing premises will not be available.

"We will be continuing to do all we can to find another premises because we are committed to maintaining a service in the area."