CAMPAIGNERS fighting to save two Maidstone post offices have lost their battle.

The Post Office says that the two branches, in Tonbridge Road and Bower Place, will close on Wednesday, February 11.

It says the closures are part of a radical national overhaul of the urban Post Office network and have been agreed with the sub-postmasters who want to leave the business.

The decision follows a six-week consultation period during which local people, groups and elected representatives, including MP Ann Widdecombe, were asked for their views.

It also follows a meeting between Cllr Mike FitzGerald (Ind), Maidstone council's cabinet member for communications and external affairs, and Drew McBride, the head of area for the Post Office.

Cllr FitzGerald said he was stunned by the Post Office's announcement. He said: "My disappointment is nothing compared to that of Fant residents, who campaigned to save their post offices.

"At the very least you would have hoped that one of the two could have been saved. It's a pity that commercial gain is put before community service."