GWENT'S politicians are fighting back to save local post office branches which are earmarked for closure next February.

The Argus revealed earlier this month that 16 Gwent post offices are to close as Post Office Ltd says there are too many branches competing for too few customers.

But politicians are leading the protests on behalf of Gwent communities who will suffer from a lack of access to services. Blaenau Gwent councillor Brian Scully has organised a protest against six offices under threat in Ebbw Vale, to take place outside the Badminton post office, in Ebbw Vale, at 2.45pm, November 24.

Councillor Scully described the cuts a serious blow to the social and economic well-being of the area and called the proposals a "complete and callow disregard for ordinary people".

Monmouth MP Huw Ed-wards said the proposals to close Portskewett's post office would prevent elderly residents accessing services.

Portskewett post office shut last July when the sub-postmaster resigned because of poor trade.

Then the Post Office announced it would advertise for a new sub-postmaster and look for new premises in the village. Now it has said the branch will be ditched.

In a letter to the Post Office, Mr Edwards said: "As a result of your proposals, Portskewett residents accessing post office services in Sudbrook will need to cross two roads where there are road safety concerns."

Mr Edwards is also "concerned about the elderly and people with mobility problems". His spokesman said: "We want to make sure that closing the Portskewett branch is not an easy decision for the Post Office to make. We'll decide on further action when they announce their decision after the consultation period."

People objecting to the proposals must do so by December 16. A spokeswoman said objections raised would be considered before a decision is made in the new year.

The spokeswoman said: "There are too many post offices for customers, that's the bottom line. We need to reduce the number of outlets so remaining ones are viable.

"Post Office Ltd has sought to ensure that most customers still live within a mile of the nearest branch, and suggested Sudbrook as an alternative for Portskewett customers.