The man who is hoping to take over from Sir Teddy Taylor as Tory MP for Rochford and Southend East after the next election has joined the row over the proposed closure of the Cluny Square post office.
Southend Council has unanimously opposed the closure of any more post offices in the town after it was revealed by the Echo that 12 are under threat.
The closure of the outlet in Cluny Square, in the centre of St Luke's Ward - one of the most deprived areas in Southend - is a particularly controversial proposal.
James Duddridge, Tory candidate for the next election when Sir Teddy stands down, has condemned the move.
Mr Duddridge said: "Pensioners are unable to travel long distances and they need local post offices and shops. These moves to close our post offices harm those in the community who are most in need of our support."
He is now planning to have a meeting with post office directors to discuss the proposed closure.
Published Wednesday June 9, 2004
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