THERE have been no formal applications to reopen a Post Office in Cookley and the branch will therefore remain closed.

The Bridge Road site closed last year after the previous postmaster resigned and withdrew the premises for Post Office use.

In response, a vacancy was advertised on the Post Office website but the company said no formal applications were received.

A letter sent by change manager Jeremy Kiff said: "The Post Office closed last year for reasons beyond our control as the postmaster resigned and withdrew the premises for Post Office use.

"Since then we have been exploring our options for restoring a Post Office service to our customers in the area.

"The vacancy in Cookley has been advertised on our website and a member of the field team has also personally visited the area, but so far we have received no interest or formal applications for the position.

"Unfortunately, we have been unable to identify a suitable solution and I’m therefore writing to you and other local representatives to advise you that as there have been no suitable opportunities to re-establish a service, this branch will remain closed."

The letter goes on to say: "We would of course consider any appropriate options if there are any significant changes in the area in the future.

"However due to the length of time the branch has been closed, we would need to satisfy ourselves that any new opportunity would be sustainable for both the Post Office and the operator."

The company is advising customers to use Wolverley Post Office in Sebright Road or Kinver High Street Post Office at the Midcounties Co-op.