SIR: Has your local Post Office got what it takes to be the best one in the United Kingdom? If so, you will have the chance to nominate it for the "Best Post Office in the Community" from Monday, June 1.

For the fifth year running, Post Office Counters Ltd, the UK's biggest retail chain, is asking its customers to help find the office - from over 19,000 nationwide - that plays a special role in the community. And it could be yours.

Last year's regional winner in the North West was Vulcans Lane Post Office in Workington, run by Tyson and Margaret Fearon. It was initially picked as the Cumbria area winner.

"It was a nice surprise to win," said Margaret. "It meant a terrific amount to us to know just how much our customers appreciate us."

Vulcans Lane Post Office was nominated by customer David Bailie. He said Tyson and Margaret were well known for visiting the homes of sick or disabled customers to help however they could and also raised money for a number of charities.

Tyson and Margaret have continued to help their community. "It's part and parcel of the job," said Margaret. "We try to improve the service to our customers all the time."

The other area winners in the region in 1997 were: Merseyside (Deyes Lane, Maghull); Greater Manchester (Woodsend Road, Flixton); Cheshire (Buxton Road, Macclesfield); Lancashire (Old Road, Ashton-in-Makerfield).

This year's area winners will each receive £100 while the customer who nominates them wins £50. The regional winner will go on to the national finals as well as receiving £500 with the nominator getting £100.

The "Best Post Office in the Community' will be presented with £1,000 and a plaque during a special event in London in November.

Entry forms are available from all post offices and the closing date is June 27.

Post Office Counters Ltd

Salford Quays, Salford?

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