Royal Mail’s announcement that the George Street branch was in line for closure has seen hundreds of people demonstrate outside the post office and scores turn out to a public meeting last month.

And the campaign, run by volunteers from the Lee Brigg area, wider Altofts and Normanton, gained momentum this weekend when more than 1,000 signed letters calling for the branch to stay open.

Campaigners, who manned a stand in Normanton Market for three hours on Saturday, said they were impressed by the level of support.

Richard Wakefield, 42, of Beverley Close, Normanton, said: “This isn’t just about the people of Altofts standing up for their post office, but all of Normanton rallying together.

“To collect so many signatures in a short space of time is a great achievement. We want to thank everyone.”

The support has been overwhelming for the Patel family, who have run the branch for nine years.

Kishure Patel said: “With us being off the main road we were shocked when so many stood up and campaigned for us to stay open.

“The post office has been here for about 90 years and people have realised how valuable it is. We are concerned about our customers needs – a lot of the community are elderly and can’t make it to Normanton.

“If the branch is forced to close it is the community that will suffer. In this modern world people are selfish so it’s surprising and touching how everyone is coming together in this common cause.”

Wakefield Council has met with Post Office Ltd to see what can be done to stop the closures. The authority was told by Postwatch, the postal service watchdog, that the only way the closures could be prevented would be to present ‘new and compelling evidence’ as to why the branches should remain open.

Other closures proposed for the district include Bradford Road, Kirkhamgate, Lofthouse, Outwood and Alverthorpe. The council has until June 23 to respond and wants to hear from people about issues that could be considered by Postwatch.

To get involved, contact Coun Graham Stokes by e-mail at GStokes@wakefield.gov.uk

For the latest on the Altofts campaign, visit www.altofts.talktalk.net