THE Post Office has confirmed this morning (Tuesday, 7 February) it hopes to continue with a Post Office service in Corringham and has already had an expression of interest from a potential service provider.

Today senior managers are expected to visit the current office on St John's Walk, which is due to close on Wednesday, 15 February to meet with the outgoing postmaster, Pravin 'Bob' Patel, who is retiring and representatives of the community.

The meeting should have taken place yesterday, when residents gathered to make the community's position clear by way of a placard-waving protest calling for a retention of the service. Residents and campaign leaders have pledged to return today for this afternoon's scheduled visit after the original one was cancelled.

Today a Post Office spokesperson told Thurrock Nub News: "The long-serving postmaster at The Precinct Post Office is stepping back from his role and we have recently accepted his resignation. We want to thank him for his loyal service. The branch is closing on Wednesday 15 February at 5.30pm.

"We know how important a Post Office is to a community.

"The vacancy will soon be advertised. We would welcome interest from local retailers. We already have interest expressed by one retailer."

It is not disclosed who the applicant is, though locals believe it may be the Martins convenience store, just around the corner.