The closure of Culmstock Post Office should only be temporary, says the Royal Mail. The post office and shop closed on January 18 when the sub-postmaster resigned, but the Royal Mail said the search was still on for a replacement.

A spokesman said: "We are actively seeking somebody who would be interested in taking on the branch and carrying on the services.

"The branches we suggest people use are at Uffculme and Hemyock, which are fortunately on direct bus routes."

Anybody interested in becoming the village sub-postmaster or finding out more about the role can call Post Office Ltd Agency Recruitment on 0845 6016260.