Post Office apologises after unexpected branch closures in Berwick

In addition, the loss of Post Office services from a retail shop on North Road means there are currently no branches serving the town to the north of the River Tweed.

Customers are still able to access Post Office services at the Asda supermarket in Tweedmouth.

A Post Office spokesperson said: “We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused by two branches in Berwick-upon-Tweed unexpectedly closing last week.

"We are working hard to restore Post Office service provision in the town centre as soon as possible.

"In the meantime the nearest alternative branch is Tweedmouth which is located close to our town centre branch and is open Monday to Friday and on Saturday mornings. Another alternative is Reston.”

Cllr Catherine Seymour, member for Berwick North on Northumberland County Council said: “The loss of two Post Offices in as many weeks is a blow for the town as it is a crucial service they provide these days for the community.

“The council is in discussions with the Post Office who is actively working with local partners around potential options to find a new town centre solution for branch services, although an immediately resolution is not feasible, so this is concerning for residents.

“Until branch services are restored in the town an option for residents is to use the nearest branch across the river at Asda's Post Office."

The closure also prompted numerous comments on social media.

Claire Louise said: “It’s embarrassing we have how many supermarkets, hairdressers, charity shops.. yet 1 post office?

Richard Robinson added: “With so many people receiving the cost of living vouchers for heating that are redeemable at PO, it is ridiculous. Plenty of empty premises that could be used.”

Geoff Thompson commented: “That's ridiculous. A town the size of Berwick without a post office. Total madness.”

Sandra Stewart posted: “What next? No post office, no dentist, we are the forgotten town.”

And Steve Foster pointed out: “It’s not just customers that lost a very valuable and community-orientated service, staff also lost their jobs.”