The Post Office says it is hoping to re-open its branch in Gillingham High Street soon after its abrupt closure last month.

The news follows an intervention by North Dorset MP Simon Hoare who has met a senior Post Office official and ‘impressed upon’ him the need for the branch to resume business as soon as possible.

In a statement the Post Office said: ‘We are working hard to restore services for the community as quickly as possible. We are finalising plans for a temporary Postmaster to re-open the branch.’

A spokesperson added: ‘We understand and appreciate how much communities rely on our services. We sincerely apologise to customers for any inconvenience caused by the temporary closure of High Street Post Office, Gillingham.’

The branch was suddenly closed on 14 June as the Post Office investigate what are believed to be audit issues.

Simon Hoare MP said: ‘I have impressed upon them very clearly the role that the Post Office plays in our smaller towns and villages. The good news is they’re working on trying to find somebody to come in and reopen the post office. They are hoping to be able to make an announcement the not too distant future.’

UPDATE:

In a Facebook posting current postmistress Sally Graham says  that she is retiring but that the branch will open again for business on July 18. She says: ‘The Post Office in the high street will re-open on 18.July.’ She adds: ‘We are so sorry it has been closed for so long.’