THE FUTURE OF THE POST OFFICE: POST Office chiefs say "harsh" decisions had to be made over the future of services in Wiltshire.

A restructuring and modernising programme meant they had to put their national network of more than 8,400 urban post offices under the microscope.

Following an eight-week consultation period bosses admitted there were far too many services competing for too little business.

Protests focused on the effect closures would have on the elderly, disabled and parents with children who feared they would have difficulty travelling to other branches.

But Paul Maisey, head of area for Post Office Ltd, said tough action was needed to safeguard the future of other counters.

Business is expected to be dealt another blow when the Department of Pensions transfers benefit payments directly into bank accounts.

"Having taken account of all the views and concerns expressed, we made the right decisions for the future network of various post offices," said Mr Maisey.

"While at this time it is of little consolation to customers, it is only by closing branches where alternatives are available and accessible we can maintain a network for the long term.

"Many branches are struggling to survive and these harsh decisions must be made."