A post office in a south Essex High Street has opened to residents after they were left fearing they would be left without access to services.

Billericay Post Office opened in a new location on Monday replacing the former Coleby’s jewellers in the High Street.

It comes after the old Post Office, based in the High Street One Stop shop closed its doors.

The previous operator for Billericay Post Office resigned and the shop shut on Saturday.

Fears were first raised about the loss of the central post office in Billericay earlier this year, with councillors and residents campaigning to keep the service available.

Anthony Bailey, Post Office area change manager, said: “We are delighted to have relocated Billericay Post Office to maintain service as we know how important a Post Office is to a community. The branch’s opening hours make it convenient for customers to visit.”

The Post Office will continue to operate as a main style office, offering a range of options and 54 hours of service a week.

Cards and stationery will also be sold in the new post office.

The new location will be open Monday to Saturday 9am to 6pm with a closure on Sundays.