ROYAL Mail is set to close the doors on a further 16 post offices in Wirral - permanently, writes Selina Phillips.

The Post Office, a subsidiary of Royal Mail, has held discussions with sub- postmasters and concluded that there were currently too many post offices competing in an area where there is already little business.

Post Office officials believe Wirral offices have been cut due to recent changes in which benefits are paid directly into people's accounts.

If the plans go ahead, then 16 of the 63 Wirral post offices will close next year. These are: seven of the 21 Wallasey branches, four of the 13 South Wirral branches, three of the 17 West Wirral branches and two of the 12 Ellesmere Port and Neston branches.

Post Office regional manager Dave Barrett said: "The harsh reality is that many urban offices are struggling to survive. We have considered this situation very carefully and have concluded that if these offices were to close, it would improve the long-term prospects of the other 47 urban offices."

South Wirral MP Ben Chapman hopes people will rally to save the post offices.

He said: "It is vital that the people affected take the opportunity to voice their opinions on individual closures.

"After all, it is local people, especially elderly and disabled, who depend most on the easy access and who can be hardest hit if closures go ahead."

Bebington councillor Jerry Williams said: "From long experience I know what a vital service the post offices of Broadway and Bebington provide for local residents and I'm deeply concerned by the proposals to close these vital amenities."

A consultation period has been established which will last until Wednesday, December 12.

The Post Office is reshuffling its national network of more than 9,000 urban post offices.

q To object to the proposals or gain further information call the Customer Helpline on 08457 22 33 44 or write to Post Office Ltd, National Consultation Team, PO Box 2060, Watford, WD18 8ZW.