A new type of post office is being trialled at a south Essex corner shop from this week.

The lighter format Post Office branch is being introduced on Friday (March 31) at the Day One convenience store in Benfleet.

Drop and Collect is a new, lighter branch format that which has been developed to increase customer access to key services they require, and to simplify the customer experience -including reducing transaction times.

The Kiln Road shop will offer post office services from a handheld device, allowing customers to bill payments and prepaid parcel collections and returns.

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More complex services such as personal and business banking will not be available at this branch.

The Post Office's propositions manager Natalie Liff said in a letter to residents: "During the trial of the new branch format,we will monitor usage, suitability and any local feedback.

"If there is a need to change the service, posters will be displayed locally to let customers know."

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This branch will be open from 7am to 11pm Monday to Saturday, and 7am to 10pm on Sundays, however it will open from 1pm this Friday.

Ms Liff added: "We hope that you and the local community will support the Post Office network in your area"