A COUNCIL is stamping its disapproval on plans to close four post offices in Middlesbrough.

Its dominant Labour group says it will try to thwart plans to close post offices in Acklam Road, West Lane, Shelton Court and at the Palladium Buildings in Marton Road.

"Labour councillors will challenge all of these closures and will work tirelessly to try and prevent our communities losing their post offices," said Labour group leader Councillor Paul Thompson yesterday.

Two of the closures will directly affect residents living in the Ayresome area of Middlesbrough.

Ward councillor Bernie Taylor said: "If the closures go ahead, elderly residents living in Ayresome Ward would find it extremely difficult to get to a post office as most are without their own means of transport. In view of the lack of alternative facilities, closure would seriously impair the quality of life for many people."

The ward also falls within an area of the town presently undergoing a £52m facelift, which includes new housing. Coun Thompson says the Post Office should be investing in an area which has a viable future - not closing down offices.

A Post Office spokesman said local concerns would be considered in the equation, but claimed those managing the post offices were initiating the closure move as they wanted to quit businesses which were not profitable.

The spokesman said: "In reality, we have too many post offices.

"Some people seem to think we are forcing sub post offices to close, but they have all indicated they wish to leave the business because, presumably, they are not making a decent living."

The official claimed all issues raised in talks would be considered, adding: "We are looking for people to raise issues which may have been overlooked."

He said: "If these post offices were making a living, the sub postmasters would not want to leave their business.''

Middlesbrough Council's Labour group is not only firmly opposed to plans to close four post offices but is helping to spearhead a petition calling for them to be kept open.