THERE are questions over the future of another Post Office branch in Christchurch.

Villagers in Burton are calling for the branch to remain open, following concerns it may be under threat, with a petition set-up in response.

The current Post Office is at Burton Stores in Salisbury Road next to the village green.

It comes after Christchurch Post Office in the town centre closed earlier this year, with fears also over the future of Highcliffe Post Office.

Responding to the concerns about Burton, a Post Office spokesperson, said: “The Postmistress for Burton would like to leave under our Post Office branch modernisation programme – the largest in the history of the Post Office.

"This is subject to another suitable retailer with premises being available.

"Therefore, the vacancy at Burton Post Office has been advertised.

"Any re-location would be subject to public consultation. We are not at the stage where we can begin consultation.”

A spokesperson for Burton Post Office declined to comment, when approached by the Daily Echo.

Burton Parish Council chairman, Judy Jamieson said: "The potential loss of the post office in Burton would have a substantial effect on villagers.

"It is very much hoped that a way can be found to ensure that Burton retains its Post Office which is much used by the village."

Last month, Christchurch MP Chris Chope raised the issue of the town's lack of post office in Parliament.

Tabling a question to the secretary of state for business, energy and industrial strategy, Greg Clark, Mr Chope asked if he would take steps to reinstate post office services in Christchurch town centre.

He also enquired if there was a maximum period a post office could be closed temporarily without the need for any public consultation.

He was told that the Post Office is continuing to explore and investigate solutions to restore services to Christchurch.