CORRINGHAM Post Office is set to close for a period of time from the middle of next month while the search continues for a new postmaster.

And the long term future of the current site may be in doubt too as the premises' current lease expires next month, though the Post Office is hoping someone will come forward either with a plan for the existing premises or a new venue in the town.

A Post Office spokesperson said: "The long-serving postmaster at The Precinct Post Office in Corringham has expressed an interest in stepping back from his role and we have recently accepted his resignation.

"We want to thank him for his loyal service.

"We are currently finalising the date for the temporary closure.

"This is likely to be mid February due to expiry of the lease.

"We know how important a Post Office is to a community and we will be looking to advertise the vacancy.

"We would welcome interest from local retailers."

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The nearest Post Office will be on London Road, Stanford-le-Hope, located within the Costcurrer supermarket, or the office in Horndon on the Hill close to the junction of Orsett Road and High Road.

There is also a Post Office at Clay Hill Road, Vange, and at Pitsea's Tesco Extra superstore.

It is not thought the Royal Mail Stanford-le-Hope Delivery Office and the adjacent sorting office which is located to the rear of the retail premises in Corringham will be affected.