A post office has been saved from closure by moving to its village hall following an effort by the community to hang on to its facility.

When Shilton village’s Subpostmaster Brian Thom announced his retirement, and the landlord of the current premises decided on a change of use, it looked as if the Warwickshire village would lose its post office for good.

But thanks to the hard work of Dickie Sparrow, chair of the Village Hall Committee, and Post Office Network Support Manager John Davis, a new office has opened today as part of the village hall.

At the helm will be new Subpostmistress Tina Lee, who has become a familiar face to villagers after a number of years as counter assistant alongside Mr Thom.

Mr Sparrow said:

"The community of Shilton owns the Village Hall, and this project has been funded by Village Hall funds.

“I would like to thank all those who have helped with the project and to those who have made donations towards the costs incurred."

Dave Barrett, Head of Retail Network for the Post Office said:

"I am delighted that my managers have been able to work so closely with the Village Hall committee and have together ensured that the vital provision of post office services to the community is maintained.

"We wish Mr Thom well in his retirement, and are sure that his customers will join us in thanking him for his invaluable service to the village. We now extend a warm welcome to Tina in her new role."