THURROCK MP Jen Craft has urged the Post Office to reconsider plans to shut its main branch in South Ockendon.

As reported on Thurrock Nub News the branch on Derwent Parade is one of more than 100 in jeopardy as the government owned Post Office tries to offset financial difficulties with a 'transformation plan" that could mean the loss of more than 1,000 jobs nationwide.

Mrs Craft has asked Post Office Chair Nigel Railton to "bear the concerns of my constituents in mind" and "think again about this decision".

She raised concerns that the removal of the post office would deprive the community of in-person access to important while also endangering the jobs of those employed by the branch.

The MP added: "I'm deeply concerned by the news that South Ockendon main branch is at risk of closure.

"This branch provides vital services to the local community. Closing the Post Office means residents lose out on these services, particularly the elderly and those that are less comfortable accessing the internet.

"While it's essential that we secure the future of the Post Office as a public service, this can't be done at the expense of local people in Thurrock."

Alongside Ockendon councillor Ryan Polston, Mrs Craft plans to launch a petition to campaign to keep the Post Office open.