A POPULAR Post Office is closing in the city.

Jabba Riaz, owner of the London Road Post Office, in Worcester, said the shop will close on February 22.

The city councillor, who is also Worcester’s Mayor, took over the shop after the former postmaster left in 2016.

He said: “We have been struggling for a while. But due to competition, in terms of retail and a reduction in fees, it’s unsustainable. It’s come to a point where we are not able to do it anymore, we took this decision with a heavy heart.”

Cllr Riaz said the Post Office’s recent modernisation programme has benefited bigger shops more than his.

He added the company has reduced the amount of commission it pays postmasters for selling certain items and services.

Cllr Riaz also said the retail side of his business could not compete with the Tesco Express, in London Road.

A Post Office spokesman said: “We understand how important a Post Office is to a community and we would like to reassure customers that we are working hard to try to maintain a Post Office in that area.”

Addressing Mr Riaz’s complaints about commission reductions, the spokesman added: “We believe the fees within the remuneration package are fair and reflect the competitive commercial environment in which the Post Office operates.”

Those interested in taking on the Post Office can visit runapostoffice.co.uk.