ALL over Gwent campaign groups are being launched to save various post offices from closure.

The threat of closure hanging over the 20 or so branches in this area has galvanised the respective communities into action, several of which we have reported on already.

We report today on the actions of those fighting to save West Park Post Office in Risca Road, Newport.

And we can understand their argument.

The Post Office is perhaps much more than just a business to be left to the vagaries of the market place.

It does in many cases, and we are sure the Risca Road branch is one, provide more of a community service for the people in the area.

Post Offices are often vital, pivotal parts of the community.

We realise they are private businesses now facing much more competition not only from other companies but also from their own online services.

But maybe the question of whether some branches should be subsidised needs to be explored much more fully before such major closures take place.

For Risca Road customers, the only alternative would be a trip into the city centre post office.

What needs to be realised is that it is not always practical or feasible for many elderly people.