A CROWDFUNDING appeal is been coordinated by Chew Magna Parish Council to bring postal services back to the village.

Chew Magna’s post office closed on March 27 following the resignation of the postmistress after providing postal services for the community for 13 years, and the premises being withdrawn from Post Office use.

Local businesswoman Debbie Neal has stepped up and been in initial talks with the Post Office and the parish council about offering postal services within her Pet Hub business in the village.

She said: “To make the new Post Office a reality, substantial investment is required.

“The Post Office needs approximately £25,000 to install the counter, systems, safe and equipment, as well as provide staff training. In addition, work is needed to improve disabled access, upgrade flooring, and install the necessary electrical and security systems - approx £6,000.

“As a small independent business, Pet Hub unfortunately cannot meet these costs alone. The projected revenue that the Post Office gives back to the business is estimated around £31,000 to £35,000 per annum.

“This alone won’t cover the staff annual costs which if 2 staff are working will be around £53,500 on minimum wage.”

So far £3,440 of the £31,000 target has been raised on the Chew Magna Post Office Revival Fund crowdfunding page.

The Pet Hub has decided not to charge the Post Office any rent or the cost of using electric and heating and meet the overheads of paying the salaries and plans to offer the Post Office service open for 40.5 hours each week.

The hope, for Debbie, is siting the Post Office within her shop, will offer an increased footfall and increase the retail stores’ revenue, to make up the shortfall.

Debbie is clear that the project can only proceed with the support of the wider community. She said: “We would not have been able to consider applying for a Post Office without the encouragement and support of local residents and businesses.

"We are now asking the community to help us take the final step. Every contribution will help bring this vital service back to Chew Magna.

“Without these funds, we will not be able to open the new Post Office. Thank you for your support.”

A spokesperson for Chew Magna Parish Council said: “As many residents will know, Debbie has successfully secured approval for a new Post Office to be located within the Pet Hub. This is a significant step towards restoring an essential service that has been greatly missed by many in our community.

“The Parish Council believes that a Post Office is an important community asset, providing essential services for residents, supporting local businesses, and helping to maintain the vitality of our village centre.

“If you are able to contribute, we would be extremely grateful. Together, we can help bring this valued service back to Chew Magna.”

Chew Magna Post Office Revival Fund can be found at: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/chew-magna-post-office with the page still open for donations for more than 40 days.