JUBILANT Cookham residents have learned that Cookham Rise post office will not be axed.

The post office was under threat of closure as part of government cutbacks announced last year to modernise the service.

But now residents have learned it has been spared.

Councillor Mandy Brar said: " It is great news. The post office is important to the local community, especially the elderly. I think it's wonderful news that it won't be axed. Everybody I've been talking to is really relieved."

The area plan proposal published on the Royal Mail website lists Cookham Rise in the post offices to remain in the network. This is still subject to a public consultation period of 4-6 weeks but widespread local support means it will almost certainly remain where it is.

Cllr Brar said: "They're absolutely vital and for some people it's a lifeline. For the older members of the community it is the place where they can collect their pension and see other people. It's sad government is not taking that line with post offices generally. They're killing business and I feel really sad, because at the end of the day, it's some people's living. But this is great news for the community."

Mr Jangra, 62, Post office owner and Cookham resident said: "The Cookham community definitely needs a post office there. It's at least a mile and a half to Maidenhead or Marlow. The elderly definitely rely on it. Youngsters don't need it, they've got e-mail and so on. Our workload is not as much as it used to be but it's still an important service for many."

The Cookham Dean post office is also on the list to remain but it is very likely that it will be relocated. The vestry at the Cookham Dean church is a possible alternative location being looked at.