In March West Norfolk was rocked by the bombshell news that 19 branches were at risk of closing as part of a programme aimed at clawing back some of the £4 million a week losses reported by Post Office bosses.

The announcement was met with an immediate rallying call from residents across the region who voiced their concerns about the shocking plans which were seen as marking the death-knell for our rural communities.

Petitions, public meetings, detailed letters of objection and focused campaigns have been organised in busy towns such as Fakenham and Downham through to quiet villages such as Ringstead and Wimbotsham.

Nearly 600 people have completed Lynn News Counter Attack coupons and our petitions have continued to thrive thanks to help from traders, parish councils and village residents who have all backed the campaign.

We have now set a final deadline of Wednesday, May 14, for all protest material to be returned to us so we can officially submit the campaign before the public consultation period closes in early June.

The Lynn News will meet North West Norfolk MP Henry Bellingham and South West Norfolk MP Christopher Fraser at the House of Commons to present the documents on Monday, May 19.

Mr Bellingham told the Lynn News: "We have got to keep the fight going. It is tricky to say if we can save them but it is up to the campaigners to continue the excellent work they are doing in mounting a very strong case.

"That will go to Post Watch and I hope they take action. It is their job to stand up for the consumer."

As well as driving our own campaign we are actively encouraging readers to write directly to Post Office bosses about the specific issues they face with detailed information and statistics to support their case.

Letters should be sent to Laura Tarling, Network Development Manager, c/o National Consultation Team, FREEPOST Consultation Team; email consultation@postoffice.co.uk or call 08457 223344