POST Office bosses are reassuring campaigners trying to save a branch from potential closure that they will get a chance to have their say.

Pensioners have already got more than 1,000 names on a petition against modernisation plans involving new Hey Post Office in New Hey Road in fear it will be moved to a new location at a busy filling station across a main road.

They all say they would not be able to use it if it was moved to East Bowling service station in Wakefield Road because it would put them at risk.

Fears include having further to go, crossing a hazardous road and being put at danger from cars using the filling station and potentially becoming victims of crime.

Brian Towell, 73, the secretary of East Bowling Pensioners Club, told the Telegraph & Argus the move would be “ridiculous”. In response, a Post Office spokesman said it wants customers to be reassured there will be a six-week-long public consultation before a final decision is made.

The spokesman said: “As part of our nationwide modernisation programme we are talking to all postmasters in our network about the investment available to ensure our branches are commercially sustainable into the future.

“We believe the best way is for a post office to be part of a thriving retail outlet and we will support them, with investment, to develop their business.

“Where this isn’t possible or if the postmaster prefers to leave, we will see if there is an alternative retailer near to the existing branch that might be suitable. Any relocation would be subject to a six week public consultation during which customers would be invited to give their views on the proposed change.”