Post Office trying to save Dunkeld service after shock closure

Outlet to close today as postmaster resigns

Post Office bosses are scrambling to rescue a Highland Perthshire service after its manager decided to shut up shop without warning.

The outlet at Dunkeld, which has been part of the town since the 19th Century, will close today, as postmaster Khalid Khurshid, 38, is resigning.

However, his bosses at the Post Office only found out the shop was closing when they were contacted by The Courier about homemade signs posted at the Bridge Street site.

The company has apologised to customers and pledged it is committed to restoring service to the town as quickly as possible.

A spokesman said: “Following the recent resignation of the postmaster and the sudden withdrawal of premises at short notice for post office use, Dunkeld post office will temporarily close at 1pm on Saturday.

“We know how important post office services are to people in Dunkeld and we apologise to customers for any inconvenience caused.

“Any customers wishing to access services can do so from any convenient branch, including Birnam Post Office.”

He added: “We would like to assure customers that we are currently investigating the options available which will enable us to reinstate a post office service to the local community.

“In exploring this, it is important that any future service is sustainable for the person operating this service, and for Post Office.”

Local MP Pete Wishart, who used to live in Dunkeld, has called for the service to be saved.

He said: “After speaking to Post Office officials this afternoon, they have now agreed to secure a new postmaster or postmistress as soon as they possibly can.

“It is my understanding that Post Office Ltd would like to offer an apology to the people of Dunkeld over the confusion caused.

“I will continue to work with Post Office Ltd to ensure the new facilities are secured as quickly as possible.”

Mr Khurshid could not be reached for comment.

A staff member confirmed the shop was preparing to close.

After speaking to Post Office officials this afternoon, they have now agreed to secure a new postmaster or postmistress as soon asthey possibly can. PETE WISHART MP

Picture: Kim Cessford. Bosses at the Post Office only found out the shop was closing when they were contacted by The Courier about homemade signs posted at the Bridge Street site.