FORMER postal workers are being asked to parcel up post office memorabilia and take it to a display commemorating the service's history.

The three floors of Bishop Auckland's former post office, in Tenters Street, once housed a telephone exchange, sorting office and front counter.

Soon the corridors will be filled with animals of all shapes and sizes when Paul Wilson Veterinary Surgeons takes over the imposing, red-brick building.

The post office opened in 1912, but 12 months ago staff moved to new premises in Victoria Avenue.

The veterinary practice hopes to move into the building in April, and wants to create a display that tells the story of the post office's past, which will be open to the public.

Jane Wilson said: "I know there must be hundreds of people who worked there once. I can copy any photographs, and I am sure people who used to work there have funny stories to tell.

"A lady who has just retired with us started her first job on the telephone exchange in the building, so she has just missed out on moving back there."

The practice plans to preserve the outside of the building and put its own stamp on the inside of the building by creating five consulting rooms and three operating theatres, creating one of the biggest animal hospitals in the region.

Send photographs to: Jane Wilson at 13 Tenters Street, Bishop Auckland, DL14 7AD, or contact her on (01388) 602707