Rural post offices are in crisis. They can no longer issue TV licences.

Soon, if the Government has its way, post office card accounts used by millions to access pensions and benefits will go too - and with them, a substantial chunk of postmasters' remaining income.

Village post offices are at the heart of many rural communities. They need help to survive.

Postmasters are not asking for the earth - only the chance to offer the services people need, and make a decent living doing so.

For the sake of rural life, the Government must listen.