A £2m scheme to kick-start the revival of the rural post office network has been officially launched by Ministers.
Community groups in Worcestershire and Herefordshire can bid for a share of the cash.
It can be used to relocate or refurbish post offices which have been axed or stand on the brink of closure.
"This scheme reaffirms the Government's commitment to the rural sub-post office network," said Competitiveness Minister Douglas Alexander.
Initiatives
"It sets aside £2m to support initiatives by volunteer or community groups to maintain or re-open post office facilities."
It is part of a wider package to encourage new entrants to the post office network.
For example, the introductory payment - equivalent to 25 per cent of the first year's salary - previously required from new subpostmasters taking on an office, has been scrapped.
In addition, a new senior role has been created in the Post Office to oversee the network's interests and look at the alternatives to rural closures.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article