Regulars at Hoarwithy's New Harp Inn can now get more than just a pint when they pop into their local pub in the village.

Drinkers enjoying their favourite tipple or simply a tea or coffee have given the new Post Office in the pub their stamp of approval after it opened for business on Monday, April 16th. It means visitors to the pub can collect their pension or benefits, buy stamps, post parcels and enjoy Post Office services most people take for granted.

"I'm pleased that we have been able to convince the Post Office of the need to keep this service running," said Cllr Russell B Hamilton, ward member for the area.

"While we've not got the number of opening hours that we would have liked, we have protected the service and have an agreement with the Post Office that they will consider extending them if we can demonstrate the demand - so that's our challenge," he added.

"This is a great boost to the community in Hoarwithy, Hentland, Kynaston and adjoining areas such as King's Caple. It's now up to local people to use this service if it is to be maintained. I'm convinced from talking to people – while I was out and about delivering leaflets last week telling them of the opening - that this is a service that they really want to support.

"I'd also like to congratulate the local parish council which is working hard for its community for demonstrating its support for this initiative. Parish councillors are currently pursuing proposals to open the Post Office for additional hours on a trial basis to help establish the demand.

"With travel costs rising sharply due to rises in the price of fuel, this new Post Office is set to make life a lot easier, and somewhat cheaper as, for some of the locals, it will avoid the need to jump in their car and drive to Peterstow, Ross-on-Wye or Hereford. The opening of the Post Office follows quickly on the back of the launch of the Hoarwithy Bus as a scenic route. Watch this space as there are other developments on the way that make the pub the hub in Hoarwithy," he added.

Landlord of the Harp Inn, Adrian Shaw, said: "I'm all for making life easier for local people. Having the Post Office in the pub suits my customers and I hope it will go from strength to strength.

"This is an exciting time for us as we really do feel that we are on the brink of transforming the way people look at their local pub. I really do believe that we have a great deal to offer both our locals and visitor to the area."

The new Post Office is open on Monday mornings between 9am and 11am.