A REFURBISHED Post Office branch that serves a small village was officially reopened by a south Essex MP.

Hawkwell Post Office, in Main Road, Hawkwell, had been closed for several weeks while work was carried out to modernise the shop area.

Rayleigh and Wickford MP Mark Francois cut the ribbon as the site was re-opened. Mr Francois was joined by sub-postmaster, Nick Aston, other members of staff and a group of happy Hawkwell residents.

He said: “I was very pleased to perform this important local duty. The Hawkwell Post Office is a greatly valued service, relied on by many of my constituents and I am delighted to see it reopening after its recent refurbishment.

“I hope the Hawkwell Post Office continues to be a strong asset to the local community for many years to come.”

The Post Office was closed in mid-March for refurbishment, to modernise the facilities provided.

The welcome refurbishment includes longer opening hours, intending to give customers flexibility when visiting the store as well as providing much more space and accessibility for merchandise.

The Hawkwell Post Office will continue to provide the same services for residents from the improved premises.