CUSTOMERS are set to benefit from longer opening hours at a busy post office as part of a three-year modernisation programme.

The Eastwood branch, in Rayleigh Road, is set to undergo a major overhaul next month.

As well as three traditional counter positions, a checkout will be introduced for customers wanting to quickly buy products on offer in store- including envelopes, stamps and stationery.

In an effort to be more customer friendly, weekday hours will be rolled out at Eastwood Post Office will every Saturday.

It currently closes at 12.30pm but will now remain open from 9am until 5.30pm.

Mark Flewitt, Tory councillor for St Laurence ward, said: “Any store, particularly one as important as a Post Office, that can extend its hours has got to be welcomed. It’s fantastic for local people who work and find it difficult to get things done in the week. It’s also great for retired people and everyone else who wants a leisurely Saturday without having to rush around.

“It’s extremely good news for the people of Eastwood and I’m delighted to see the Post Office investing in our local area.”

Eastwood Post Office will be closed for a week whilst the refurbishment takes place.

Customers are advised to use Belfairs Post Office in Eastwood Road North, Leigh, or Rochford Corner Post Office in Rayleigh Road, Eastwood, from Monday June 17 until Friday June 21.

About 6,000 stores- almost half of all Post Office’s in Britain- will become new-style branches over the next three years.

Post Office bosses claim this investment secures their future and shows a commitment to no more closures.

Mark Lawrence, regional manager, said: We “understand how important having a Post Office is to residents in this area of Leigh and we are confident that this new modern Post Office service will meet the needs of the local community and secure services for the future.”