THE Post Office is still looking for someone to run a service near Pershore - even though two villagers are ready and willing to step in.

But Kim and Roy Summers must overcome restrictions on plans to turn their home in Cropthorne into a post office.

They are due to meet planners and highways officers next Monday to see how problems with traffic and road safety can be resolved.

The present office in Main Street is closing on Saturday, September 29, because sub-postmaster and postmistress David and Sue Miller are retiring.

If the Summers' bid to run a post office fails, Cropthorne will suffer the same fate as neighbouring Charlton, Fladbury and Norton, which have all lost their services.

"It's all totally up in the air at the moment," said Mr Summers, of Middle Lane.

"We're going to meet next week and discuss the problems. I know the council had concerns about the lack of a footpath and the narrowness of the road."

Mr Summers said villagers had considered launching a special fund to pay for remedial works to Middle Lane themselves. They have already funded an independent survey of the road.

Mr Summers said it was ironic the Post Office was still looking for people to run Cropthorne's branch when their offer had stood for several months.

Last month, 198 people voted to support the Summers' plans after Wychavon District Council had turned them down.

Just seven villagers, mostly living in the immediate vicinity, had objected.

Post Office spokeswoman Valerie Goodchild said she understood the Summers' frustration, but ruled out lobbying the district council.

"We couldn't get involved in that because it is not within our remit," she said.

"The fact the Summers have submitted an application suggests they would be suitable to run a post office.Our concern is to try all means possible to maintain a post office service."

Anyone interested in applying should call 0845 6016260.