A village post office has reopened after undergoing a makeover.

Hartley Post Office, which has now also become a Premier convenience store, was closed for three weeks for the refurbishment.

Previously, the two post office counters were sectioned off from the rest of the shop and were dark and cramped for customers trying to move past one another.

The wall and doorway have now been removed and the inside of the store redesigned so it is more spacious which has also created more retail space.

Previously cards and stationery had been sold but it has now become a Premier store with more stock and freezers.

Hartley postmaster Karthikeyan Khartik said: “Customers think that the new-look store is amazing.

“It had been tricky for customers to get to the Post Office before as it was in a separate part of the shop behind a wall with a door, so it was difficult getting past people.

“That area was also dark and gloomy. It is now much better. The whole of the retail area has been fully refitted and it is well stocked.”

Karthikeyan, who also runs a store in the nearby Fleetdale Parade, took over the Post Office, in Ash Road, in May.

He added: “This transformation has been a labour of love and we believe it marks an important milestone in our community’s journey.

“The revamped Hartley Post Office and Shop will not only provide essential services but also serve as a welcoming hub where neighbours can gather, connect and share stories.”

The store was officially opened on Friday (September 1) by the deputy leader of Sevenoaks council Cllr Perry Cole and Hartley and Hodsoll Street district councillors Penny Cole and Larry Abraham.

Hartley Post Office and Premier convenience store is open Monday to Saturday from 8am to 7.30pm and on Sunday from 8am to 4pm.