The Post Office in Neilston is to temporarily from next month, it has been announced.

Following the resignation of the postmaster, the branch on Main Street will be shut from Saturday, January 13 at 12.15pm.

A letter from Scott Hamilton, the Post Office’s network provision lead, was issued today informing customers of the news.

It said: “The provision of a Post Office service to our customers in the local community is important to us, and we will continue to work hard to restore services in the area as soon as possible.

“We would welcome any applications from potential retail partners interested in running a branch locally on our behalf.

“The vacancy is currently being advertised on our website www.runapostoffice.co.uk and applications will be carefully considered.

“If you are aware of any interested parties, please do share the link with them.”

Posters will be displayed in the branch to inform customers of the closure.

The closest alternative branches are Barrhead Post Office on Cross Arthurlie Street and Auchenback Post Office on Aurs Drive.

“We apologise for the inconvenience the closure may cause,” the letter added.

Following the news today, East Renfrewshire MP Kirsten Oswald expressed her hope that the role can be filled as soon as possible so that the service “which Neilston requires can be reinstated as soon as possible.”

“I will be writing to the Post Office today to press that point,” she added.

On hearing of the impending closure, residents expressed their sadness and concern on social media.

One resident commented: "This is shocking for the size of Neilston where so many people depend on this service especially elderly will now have to travel to Barrhead."

Another added: "What a shame always found staff very helpful."

To find out more about the closure and read the letter to customers in full click HERE.