February 7, 2001 11:21: VILLAGERS could be left without a post office after a postmistress announced she was retiring.

Anne Bailey is leaving her job on March 31, after 12 years in charge of Bledlow Ridge Sub Post Office, Chinnor Road, Bledlow Ridge.

The Post Office is advertising her job but the branch, which includes a shop, will have to close if no-one steps in.

Its closure would mean villagers would have to travel to Princes Risborough, Stokenchurch or West Wycombe for their nearest post office.

Bledlow-cum-Saunderton parish councillor for Bledlow Ridge, Margaret Terry, said it would be a great shame for villagers if the store had to close.

She said: "We've only got the two shops in the village. The job is going to be advertised but I don't imagine it would be filled."

Wycombe district councillor for Bledlow-cum-Saunderton, Bruce Holland, said it was a sad day for the village.

He said: "I'm very, very disappointed. I think it is very important to village life."

Cllr Holland also paid tribute to the postmistress.

"She's always been very capable and will be missed," he said.

But Mrs Bailey said that Bledlow Ridge was still better off than many villages.

She said: "The village will still have a shop. Most villages have nothing."

The news comes after the Government's rural white paper which announced that rural post offices would get £270 million of investment.

There would also be a formal requirement to maintain the rural network, preventing any unnecessary closures.

John Neville, spokesman for the Post Office, said anyone who wished to apply for the Bledlow Ridge position should call (0845) 601 6260.