IT was business as usual at Barnard Castle post office on Tuesday after the premises had been forced to close on Monday following a raid in the early hours.

The theft, which police say was planned rather than opportunist, took place at about 3am. The alarm did not sound as the system had been disabled by the crooks before they forced entry.

They burnt open the safe and left with an undisclosed sum of money. But Christmas post and parcels remained untouched - the thieves' sole interest revolving around the cash.

The break in was discovered by Paul and Louise Barron, who run the office, when they arrived for work at about 8.15 on Monday. Mr Barron dashed to the nearby Castle Caf to alert police. With the building cordoned off, customers hoping to collect pensions and benefits for Christmas were given the opportunity of using either Gainford or Cotherstone post offices.

Mrs Barron told the D&S Times that normal service had been resumed on Tuesday, but was unable to comment about the actual raid or the cash amount involved.

Detectives were keen to speak to three people unconnected with the theft, but who were known to be in the area at the time.

"Two have come forward and been eliminated from our inquiries, but we are still hoping to speak to the third person in case they might have seen something," said Det Sgt Sean Jackson.

Anyone who has information about the incident is asked to call Barnard Castle police on 01833 637328.

Rehab centre plan

A REHABILITATION centre for the visually impaired is being planned for Darlington.

The borough council has been working with the Royal National Institute for the Blind in discussions for what would be a £100,000 social rehabilitation centre.

A multi-agency approach would be adopted, with help from the voluntary sector, involving training and education in living and communication skills.

The money has been put aside for 2004-5 in the council's five year financial plan