NORMAN and Elaine Hammersley insist they have no choice but to sign away a lifeline for scores of pensioners.

For 21 years the postmaster and his wife have issued pensions and benefits to thousands of residents living near the Ferndale Road branch.

But now they are preparing to bring down the shutter for the final time.

Mr Hammersley blames lack of custom, insisting post offices are no longer viable.

Speaking for the first time to the Evening Advertiser, he said the decision was not taken lightly, but it was one that had to be made.

Two other post offices one in Clifton Street and another in Oxford Road, are also set to close in November, pending a six-week consultation period.

Asked how he felt about the closure he said: "How do you think I feel? I have put 21 years into this business.

"Being a postmaster is not just a job it's a livelihood.

"But I am a realist and it's clear that the business is not here.

"Some 21 years ago when I arrived here, there was a sign in the window which said: 'Use It Or Lose It'. Nothing has changed.

Mr Hammersley said he sympathised with the concerns of customers who have backed our campaign but stressed that they have little choice.

He believes the Government is bleeding post offices dry by phasing out traditional pension days.

"Tony Blair is responsible for this branch closing not me," he said.

"He and his Labour Government have made pensioners use banks to draw their pensions.

"Postmasters are not to blame for this. The people who know me will know why I am leaving.

Richard Hall, a Post Office spokesman, said: "No decision has yet been made. But this appears to be the postmaster's decision."

Michael Wills, Labour MP for north Swindon hit back at the accusations. He said: "I am very concernerd. It is wrong to blame the Government. We have invested half a billion pounds into sustaining the post office network."

Kevin Shoesmith