A PRESTON community this week said a sad goodbye to a couple who have run the local post office for more than 40 years.

Joseph and Terri Southworth have decided to hang up their postbag after 42 years living and working at Brookfield Post Office.

Shortly after announcing Mr Southworth's retirement, Post Office Counters decided to relocate the Langcliffe Road branch to the Spar stores in Watling Street Road, Ribbleton.

But locals expressed sadness at the move.

Josephine Tyrie, who has used the post office for many years, said: "The post office has been the centre of our community for decades and generations of families have used it.

"We all got to know the Southworths and enjoyed calling in for a chat.

"They have helped keep community spirit strong."

Mrs Tyrie added: "I think I speak for most local people in wishing the Southworths all the best for the future."

Mr Southworth - and children's cartoon character Postman Pat - officially opened the new Post Office Counter service at the Spar shop on Monday.

Lorna Derravan, Post Office Counters' retail network manager, said: "We are sad to see Mr Southworth go and greatly appreciate his many years of devoted service.

"However, I am sure our customers will welcome the changes.

"The new office will open for longer - 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday and 8am to 4pm on Saturday - but our current range of transactions will remain the same."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.