Villagers rally to support Mandy

Villagers have rushed to support their local sub-postmistress after two customers made official complaints they could not collect parcels because her premises were shut following an armed robbery.

Mandy Gorey posted notices on the window and counter of the post office in Greenfield offering to explain the reasons for the closure following her “terrible ordeal”.

Mandy and her assistants were held captive by two robbers, one armed with a gun and the other with axe, at the post office, in Chew Valley Road, on November 5.

Despite being in shock, Mandy, who has run the post office for 13 years, reopened only 48 hours after the drama.

But she faced an internal investigation after two customers complained to her bosses they could not collect parcels.

Her supporters read the news in the note she penned thanking them for their kindness and good wishes.

She declared: “If the two people who made a complaint to customer services about not being able to collect their parcels while we were closed would like to make yourself known we will explain the severity of the ordeal personally.”

Parish councillor Neil Allsopp said: “The post office is the centre of the community and we are more interested in the real victims — Mandy and her team — not someone who has not been able to collect a parcel.

“Mandy is an integral part of the village and a marvellous asset. We are all pleased she is operating her business again, something for which we should be grateful.

“One of the finest traits of the Saddleworth people is the depth of their compassion and their selfless support for each other through difficult times.

“I know Mandy will have seen this herself over recent weeks. I want her to know and remember, the people of Greenfield support her 100 per cent.”

A local businessman, who did not want to be named, added: “Many of Mandy’s customers are incredulous about her being reported to the authorities.

“It’s hard to believe the complainants could not have heard of the robbery in such a tight-knit community after it received such widespread publicity.

“Villagers are genuinely outraged anyone could make a complaint about service in such trying personal circumstances for Mandy and her family.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact GMP officers at Oldham police station on 0161-856 8985 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555 111.