Otley’s refurbished Post Office has been officially opened by the town’s MP and mayor.

The Nelson Street outlet was closed for two weeks in February to allow a major revamp designed to create a more modern, open-plan environment with longer opening hours.

Mr Mulholland said: “I welcomed the news that Otley Post Office was to be modernised and am delighted to congratulate Subpostmaster Martin Goldthorpe on his hard work and formally open the new branch.

“The Post Office is vital to the community in and around Otley and I’m sure the new improved office, and the longer opening hours, will be warmly welcomed by all of my constituents.”

The new-look business, open from 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday, now has two traditional, screened customer positions and two new-style, open-plan positions, as well as a ‘combi counter’.

It has also extended its selection of cards and stationery.

Coun Gill, who was accompanied by her husband Councillor Ray Gill (Lab, Ashfield), said: “I am delighted that Post Office Ltd has undertaken a major revamp of this essential facility in our local community.

“A great local postal service is absolutely essential for so many people in our community and I am certain the refurbished facility and new services will serve Otley well.”

Mr Goldthorpe added: “Our customers have been pleased with the change, and myself and staff agree it is a much better work environment.

The modernisation work at Otley was part of a three-year investment programme, that will affect about 6,000 branches, being carried out by Post Office Ltd.