ACROSS the UK over four million people, including thousands here in Weston have their state pensions and benefits paid at the Post Office using the Post Office card account (POCA). However, this service is now under threat. The Government is currently co

ACROSS the UK over four million people, including thousands here in Weston have their state pensions and benefits paid at the Post Office using the Post Office card account (POCA). However, this service is now under threat. The Government is currently considering bids to run a new POCA from 2010 and we have concerns that it may decide to award the contract to another bidder.We believe the Post Office is best placed to continue to provide this service. We offer local convenient access for customers who trust the staff and the Post Office brand. It also means customers won't have to fill out more forms, be forced to open bank accounts or travel long distances to inconvenient and unfamiliar locations. Without the POCA, we fear our Post Office and over 3,000 others across the country will be forced to close, leading to more difficulties for local residents and businesses.That is why I have written to my MP, John Penrose, asking him to write to the Prime Minister to urge that the Government awards the contract to the Post Office. If it fails to do so, the consequences for local Post Offices will be devastating.MR AND MRS A J PAGE, Loxton, Weston