RAINHAM Mark post office near Gillingham has been earmarked for closure later this year.

The branch, in London Road, is set to close as part of the Post Office's restructuring and modernising programme with 30 branches across the UK proposed for closure.

Following a briefing exercise with postmasters in the Gillingham area, the decision was taken to close the Rainham Mark branch permanently in June this year.

Steps will be taken to ensure that branches in Twydall and Maidstone Road, Rainham, will be fully geared up to cope with the extra needs of customers. The closure is not cut and dried, however, with the Post Office yet to conduct a public consultation on the plan.

People have until April 29 to send their views on the proposal to the consultation team. They should write to: National Consultation Team, PO Box 641, St Albans, AL1 5XN.