Campaign delivers welcome verdict

Sukhi Singh: business as usual

DELIGHTED villagers are celebrating a reprieve for a popular sub-postmaster whose business — the area’s only shop — was threatened with closure.

Hundreds of wellwishers sent letters in support of Sukhi Singh, whose family has run Dobcross Post Office for 14 years.

Royal Mail planned to close the sorting office at the premises and relocate to Oldham. The sorting office serves Dobcross, Delph, Diggle and Denshaw and provides 70 per cent of Sukhi’s income. Its loss would have meant the shop’s closure.

But today Mr Singh, who took over the business on the death of his father, said a big thank you to his supporters.

“I’ve been completely swept away by their unflinching support,” he said. “They have all been absolutely marvellous. I’m deeply grateful to them all.

“I’d like to thank the Chronicle for highlighting my dilemma. It really did help the campaign to keep the business here.”

The protest included the local MP, ward and local councillors and Dobcross Village Community Association.

Councillor John McCann, who lives in Dobcross, said: “I am delighted the sorting office has been saved.

“It’s due to all sections of the community clearly stating the facts supporting its retention and presenting reasoned arguments.”