The Peterborough Evening Telegraph
Volunteers pulling together to keep Post Office open
‘We’re part of this community and wanted to do our bit.’
Russell Gadsby Spirotech
A local community and volunteer group has pulled together to keep a vital village post office open during the coronavirus outbreak.
Sawtry Post Office was due to close last week over safety concerns for its staff and customers.
After hearing the news, the Sawtry Covid-19 action group and Councillor Simon Bywater decided what was needed was a Perspex screen on the counter to protect individuals and allow the post office to remain open.
They contacted the directors of local engineering company Spirotech, brothers Russell and Dave Gadsby, who provided the materials they needed.
The team from Spirotech worked to build the protective screen and the post office has remained open and continues to provide services for local residents.
They then did the same at Boots pharmacy and have started work at another local shop, John Greens Newsagent.
Coun Simon Bywater, at Cambridgeshire County Council member for Sawtry and Stilton, said: “If the post office had closed it wouldn’t have only affected Sawtry, but all the villages around it too. Russell and David have been very generous in their support for the village and I want to say thank you on behalf of the community.”
“It’s really important to keep it open so people can stay in contact with the family and friends during this difficult time.
“It’s particularly vital for the elderly in our community, who may already feel isolated due to social restrictions.”
“It’s great to see everyone working as a team and that people have reacted so positively to our work.”
Director of Spirotech Russell Gadsby said: “We’re part of this community and wanted to do our bit so we’re only too happy to help.
“We’re so pleased the post office has managed to remain open, particularly as lots of people in the community rely so heavily on it.”