POST office chiefs are proposing the permanent closure of five post offices in the Maidstone area.

One of them, at 105 Week Street, has been "temporarily closed" since February 2001. The Post Office now wants to make the closure permanent.

The other branches may close later this year. They are in Allen Street, Maidstone, Downsview Post Office, The Spires Centre, Deringwood Drive, Maidstone, Roseacre Post Office, Ashford Road, Maidstone, Bearsted

Bearsted Post Office, The Green, Bearsted.

The six-week period of consultation ends on Thursday, August 19.

In a statement Post Office Ltd claimed there was insufficient business for all 19 branches in Maidstone and the Weald to survive.

The proposed closures followed talks with local subpostmasters and would ensure the viability of the remaining branches.

FULL STORY IN FRIDAY'S KENT MESSENGER