POPLEY could soon see the return of a post office following a hard-fought campaign by a mother and son.

Jane and Paul Frankum, who are both councillors for Basingstoke, launched a petition after Martin’s and its Post Office closed in Fast Fare last year.

Cllr Frankum, who describes the service as a ‘life line’ for vulnerable residents said they had more than 1,400 signatures in support for their cause.

And now the Gazette can reveal that Premier Stores, next door to the closed shop, is close to finalising a deal with the Post Office about opening a kiosk inside its shop.

Cllr Frankum said this is a much-needed amenity for the Popley community. She said: “It is so vital for residents. At the moment elderly people are being forced to travel into town with large amounts of money which isn’t safe.”