Campaigners turn out for post office

More than 100 campaigners attended a meeting to oppose the feared closure of Royal Mail's Bilston delivery office.

Supporters turned out in force at Springvale Social Club, in Millfields Road, amid claims the Hall Street facility is earmarked for closure.

About 45 people work at the office and it is believed that their roles will be transferred to the Tipton office, which is four miles away, if the move goes ahead.

Gary Perry, Wolverhampton branch secretary of the Communications Workers Union, added: "Staff have been told the closure is because of cost- cutting and because the Bilston office isn't viable anymore.

"Nationally the CWU is in talks with Royal Mail about improving the quality of services but shutting this delivery office will mean that residents, business and staff suffer." Councillor Phil Page, Labour representative for Bilston North, said: "The meeting was really well attended and there is a lot of strong feeling among residents.

"A lot of people in Bilston don't drive and to make them travel to Tipton to pick up parcels makes no sense."

Royal Mail today maintained it has no "firm plans" for the Bilston facility.

Pat McFadden, MP for Wolverhampton South East, said: "I have spoken to Royal Mail and been assured no decision has been taken as yet."