ASHBURTON’S new library and post office are open for business.

MP Mel Stride and Post Office director Neil Ennis cut the ribbon at a community celebration at the Lawrence Lane site on Friday. The new library is the first in the country to be housed in a post office building.

The post office has been transformed in the biggest-yet branch modernisation scheme. Service is now provided from two open plan counters and a modern screened position, and there are extended opening hours on Saturday afternoons and a free ATM.

Mr Stride said: ‘This is a fantastic success story. Bringing together the post office and the library will strengthen both. The success here is a huge testament to postmaster Stuart and manager Jackie’s hard work and vision, and the tremendous support that the Friends of Ashburton Library, local company Glendinning, local councillors and many others have provided.’

FULL STORY IN OUR DIGITAL EDITION