Pub plan wins support (From Free Press Series)

Pub plan wins support

MONMOUTHSHIRE councillors are delighted with the offer by Tintern licensee Steve Pocock to have the village post office in his pub cellar.

The Cherry Tree Inn in Forge Road can now sell stamps during the daytime, and beer at night, members of the county planning committee have agreed.

The local member, Cllr Don Spencer said: "The post office used to be in the Abbey Mill complex, but it was withdrawn a few months ago and no-one on the main road is willing to offer the facility.

"I am very pleased that the owner of the Cherry Tree Inn is able to provide a post office in his premises, and parking will be no worse than for the public house.

"At least someone has come forward to offer this badly needed facility."

Cllr John Harrhy said the planning committee were used to discussing the closure of rural pubs, and they welcomed one that was prepared to offer the facility of the post office as well.

Mr Pocock said: "The idea came after talking to locals about the four or five mile drive to Chepstow Post Office and I thought 'we've got a spare room, we could give Tintern its post office back'."

He added: "All the locals are really pleased. I have had nothing but positive comments. I think it is quite unusual, with only a handful across the country, but I think it is the way to go - a one-stop.

"I am doing this purely to help Tintern and give the village a Post Office back."