RESIDENTS in Leeds, near Maidstone, could have to raise more than £4,000 if they want their village post office to re-open. They are being asked this week if they would be prepared to buy bonds in the business if it meant a new post office could open in the village hall.

The former post office closed in December when the sub-postmaster retired and withdrew use of his premises. Since then, residents have been forced to travel to neighbouring villages to claim their allowances.

A group of Leeds people have formulated a plan to convert a room in the village hall. Someone has agreed to take on the role of sub-postmaster but it will cost an estimated £8,000 to get the service up and running - a risk the group will only take if they are sure villagers will use it.

Parish council chairman Cllr Mike Ingarfield said: "We were desperately sorry that the post office has closed and would love to see one open again, providing there is sufficient support for it. All we can hope for is that if the money is raised, the residents will use it."

Leaflets are being distributed to villagers this week to gauge their views. A decision on whether or not to proceed with the possible sale of bonds will be made at the end of this month.