Community leaders in Bradford on Avon have staged a meeting to highlight the need for new owners to take over the post office.

The shop, in Trowbridge Road, has been for sale for four years, with its owners hoping to find someone to buy the business so they can retire.

However, they have become concerned about the lack of interest registered.

Bill and Jill Sherman, who live in the property, have run the post office branch for 19 years, but are hoping to retire by September.

Mr Sherman, 67, said: “We knew it wouldn’t happen overnight and had to plan ahead, but we have had no solid follow-ups and can’t understand why it has not gone.”

Mrs Sherman, 65, said: “It is time to go. A lot of people are concerned. We hope someone takes it on.”

The couple are selling the four-bedroom house – with its garage, south facing garden and customer parking – along with the convenience store and post office downstairs.

Mr Sherman said: “If we can’t sell, we would have to revert back to a residential property, which would be a big loss to the community. The other option is for it to relocate.”

Jim Lynch, of Bradford on Avon Community Area Network, called a meeting this week, to raise awareness among residents and see if there was the possibility of the community taking over the shop.

Mr Lynch said: “This is about getting the facts right and getting the information out there and seeing what might be the best option for the good of the community.”