A post office in Redditch has officially opened its doors in a brand-new location this week. 

Crabbs Cross Post Office opened yesterday (Thursday, April 4) in Simply Fresh at 432 Evesham Road. 

The move has restored services to the community after the long-surviving Postmaster, Alan Beasley, recently retired after 25 years at the helm of the shop at 502 Evesham Road. 

The new postmaster is Parminder Singh who also runs Simply Fresh. 

At the time of retiring, Mr Beasley said: "I took to the role of postmaster like a duck to water. I have really loved being a postmaster. I have only taken one day off sick in the past 35 years when I had a migraine as I didn't want to let my customers down. 

 "I have prided myself in running a good office. I like to help people. I'm a people person and I get great satisfaction in helping people especially the vulnerable. 

"I am really going to miss serving my customers. They are sad that I'm leaving but relieved that new retailers will take over the Post Office."

Redditch Advertiser: The new branch has extended opening hours The new branch has extended opening hours (Image: Post Office)

The new shop also comes with extended opening times to provide an extra 22 hours of service a week for the convenience of customers. 

The new branch is open six days a week instead of four with there being a dedicated Post Office area with two Post Office serving points. 

The opening hours are Monday to Friday from 9am until 6pm and Saturday from 9am until 3pm. 

A spokesperson for the Post Office said: "A similar variety of products and services are still available. The entrance at the shop has been improved to provide level access. 

"The new branch has been built in line with Post Office specifications to ensure there is sufficient space for the Post Office service to operate alongside the retail offer."