A POST OFFICE in West Fife will remain closed as a search for a new home continues.

The North Rosyth branch had been located inside McColl's on Queensferry Road but it was announced in September last year that the shop would be withdrawing Post Office services.

The 'temporary closure' has remained in place now for more than 12 months and Post Office provided an updated to customers last Thursday.

Robert Sharp, network provision lead, stated that no "suitable opportunities to re-establish a service" had been found.

He said: "As you may be aware, the above Post Office closed last year for reasons beyond our control as the premises were withdrawn for Post Office use.

"Since then, we have been exploring our options for restoring a Post Office service to our customers in the area.

"The vacancy in Rosyth has been advertised on our website and a member of the field team has also personally visited the area but so far we have received no interest or formal applications for the position.

"Unfortunately, we have therefore been unable to identify a suitable solution and I’m writing to you and other local representatives to advise you that as there have been no suitable opportunities to re-establish a service, this branch will remain closed.

"We would of course consider any appropriate options if there are any significant changes in the area in the future.

"However, due to the length of time the branch has been closed, we would need to satisfy ourselves that any new opportunity would be sustainable for both Post Office Ltd and the operator."

Dunfermline and West Fife MP Douglas Chapman said the announcement was "unfortunate news" for the area.

He said: "I'm grateful to the Post Office for making an effort to locate an alternative venue in North Rosyth, though obviously disappointed that search has not led to a new home being found.

"I'd urge any venues in the area interested in hosting the Post Office to get in touch with them as soon as possible. They offer a vital service and it's important we restore it as soon as we can.”

Customers in the Rosyth area can currently access services at Crossroad Post Office on Castlandhill Road, Rosyth, and at Inverkeithing Post Office on High Street.