NEWPORT council has taken up the cudgels on behalf of closure-threatened post offices in the city.

A storm of protest greeted the news that branches on Christchurch Road, Risca Road and Malpas Road are facing the axe - three of a total of 21 in Gwent.

Now the city council is writing to the Post Office to formally object to the proposals.

Councillor Lloyd Delahaye, cabinet member for public affairs, said they completely opposed the closing down of any of the branches.

"We believe that such a widespread programme of closures is completely unnecessary and a sad example of a vital service putting profits before people.

"The people who will be most severely affected by these proposals are the elderly, disabled and people on low incomes.

"These are the people who will find it very difficult to access the vital Post Office services if their local branches are to be closed."

He urged those currently undertaking the consultation process to listen carefully to the views of their customers.

Sean Kennedy, who owns the post office in Christchurch Road with his wife Helen, welcomed the support of the council.

The future of the branch was on the agenda of the regular neighbourhood meeting this week and subsequently attracted a much bigger attendance - more than 100 people.

"It shows the strength of feeling about the proposed closure," said Alway councillor Ray Truman who, together with his fellow ward members, is campaigning to save the branch.

He urged people to go to a public meeting in Hatherleigh community centre at 4pm on February 1 which is due to be attended by a Post Office representative.

Stow Hill councillor Peter Davies has also written to the Post Office about the threatened West Park branch in Risca Road.

He said it follows the closure of three branches in his ward over the past few years.