Refurbished Post Office opened on Portway

PORTWAY’S new-look Post Office was opened last month by David Warburton MP and the vice-chair of Mendip District Council, councillor Edward Drewe.

The Post Office and convenience store is now open an extra 12 hours per week, has a wider range of services available, and has a community hub where people can stop for coffee and cake.

The shop has been taken on by local woman Sarah Wilkins, who took over from long-standing postmasters Jerry and Kate Lewis.

Sarah said, “I have lived in Frome for 13 years, but I am not originally from the area and I don’t have my own children – which are a great way of meeting people, so I thought there must be other people like me who would like the chance to meet other local people at the Portway Community Hub.

“Customers appear pleased with all the changes made. The post office and store now look lighter and as a result everyone thinks the store is bigger, I hope we have realised the potential of the space.”

The Post Office counters are now open 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 5.30pm on Saturdays.

David Warburton MP said, “I was delighted to open this great-looking new branch and store and to congratulate new postmaster Sarah Wilkins on the changes made to modernise the post office and convenience store.

“The Portway Community Hub is a fantastic initiative to help to bring the community together. The longer opening hours will also benefit the residents and businesses in Frome.”

Mendip District Council vice-chair cllr Edward Drewe said, “Both David Warburton and I also wish to thank long-serving postmaster Jerry Lewis and his wife Kate for their loyal commitment to the town and to wish them well with their retirement.

“Portway is blessed to have a dedicated new postmaster, Sarah Wilkins, who really cares about the community. The Post Office and store look very professional and welcoming.”

The Post Office is at 2 Portway, Frome – for more information about services available call 01373 467294.