Half of all high street post offices throughout the country could be closed or sold off under plans being considered by the Royal Mail.

As many as 270 stores nationwide could be shut down or offered to local consortiums as part of reforms which are being discussed with unions and consumer groups.

Last month, the Post Office announced that it is to shut sub- offices in Ferndale Road, Clifton Street and Oxford Road in Swindon.

The plight of the Crown post offices will be investigated later this month by the Trade and Industry Select Committee and a decision is expected on their future before the end of the year.