DESPITE a campaign by local residents, supported by councillors, which has garnered a petition with several thousand signatures on it, the closure – hopefully temporary – of Corringham's Post Office service at close of business on Wednesday, 15 February has been confirmed.

And as well as the Post Office rubber-stamping the intervention of service, retiring postmaster Pravin 'Bob' Patel has also issued a farewell message to his customers after serving them for two decades.

There has been speculation that Mr Patel might continue on an interim basis and discussions to that effect took place but the Post Office says an agreement could not be reached.

Its latest statement to Thurrock Nub News says: "Recent conversations have been held with the postmaster about the possibility of extending service at the current location.

"However, the postmaster has decided to go ahead with his plans to retire and the branch is closing tomorrow at 5.30pm. 

"We know how important a Post Office is to a community. The vacancy has been advertised. We would welcome interest from local retailers. We already have interest expressed by one retailer."

In his message to customers Mr Patel says: "I wish to take this opportunity to thank all the patrons for their kind support and generosity shown over the last 20 years.

"I have derived enormous pleasure serving the local community.

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"I am looking forward to my retirement and spending time with my family.

"On behalf of Leonora and myself, once again our sincere thanks to each and everyone."

The nearest Post Office to Corringham is the one based in the Costcutter store on London Road, Stanford-le-Hope.

Alternatively there is a Post Office behind the village store in Horndon on the Hill.

There is also a Post Office at the Tescoe Extra store in Pitsea – and another at the Riverview Centre in Vange.