STALYBRIDGE’S MP has done the honours by cutting the ribbon to officially launch the town’s new Post Office.
The Correspondent saw the facility open its doors after relocating from Trinity Street to the ground floor of The Hayloft around the corner on Dean Street.
And on Thursday, September 17, Jonathan Reynolds made it formal as he feels its new premises can bring new life to the Post Office.
As he witnessed the refurbishment carried out under the instruction of postmistress Brenda Brooks, he said: “I’ve known Brenda for many years through her outstanding service to the community as Stalybridge’s postmistress, so it’s a real pleasure to officially open these fantastic new premises.
“The Post Office is an important part of town life and it’s great to see this valued local service begin this new chapter in The Hayloft.”
Mr Reynolds was joined by dignitaries for the ceremony.
And Brenda added: “I have worked in a number of different Post Offices across the North West since the age of 16 as a clerk or a manager, often providing temporary cover.
“When I got to Stalybridge 30 years ago, I was really happy and I decided that I wanted to then stay as the permanent postmistress.
“I’m 67, but I definitely don’t feel ready to retire. So instead I decided to invest in my business and to move to better premises for my loyal customers and staff, who have been here a long time and new recruits, as well as offering opportunities for people with special needs, who welcome the opportunity to work.”
Stalybridge Post Office continues to operate as a main style branch, offering the same wide range of services and is one of the top performers for passport renewal and a very high achiever when it comes to foreign currency.
There are four serving positions in total – two screened and two Post Office points at the retail counter.
Brenda has created a dedicated parcel posting area of the branch solely for the growing market, where people can take their home shopping returns and other pre-paid items and to collect packages.
It is in a separate from the main counters and is designed with a very large storage area to separate out outgoing and incoming mail for the different carriers that they offer – DPD, Evri, Amazon, DHL, Royal Mail, Parcelforce.
Vicki Patching, Post Office Independent Partnership Lead, commented: “Brenda is a first-class postmistress, who is cherished in this community for all that she has done for this Tameside town for 30 years.
“Brenda is an absolutely inspiring postmaster who truly cares about the customers that she serves and her staff which motivated her to move to better premises.
“This modern relocated shop looks marvellous and Brenda and her team provide a warm welcome, which make people want to come back time and time again.
“After more than 50 years serving Post Office customers, Brenda is still passionate about providing great service.
“Brenda is a great businesswoman who also took on Stalybridge Banking Hub to provide everyday banking needs and where representatives from the major banks can have face-to-face meetings with customers on allocated days.”