Post Office Ltd announced on Wednesday that the Milverton branch, along with those in Albion Street, Kenilworth, and West Street, Warwick, would close this year.

The news is a blow for campaigners who tried to save the Warwick Place business and its manager of nine years, Jay Patel.

He said: "It's very sad. I have got to know all my regular customers and we have a really good rapport.

"I can see why they are having to close branches, but I was doing well here - we are not loss-making."

The branch - known as The Dell - was earmarked for closure by the company in June as part of its plan to axe 2,500 nationwide in order to ensure "a sustainable way forward" for the service.

Mr Patel, 45, who runs the business with three staff, said he would like to thank everyone for their support.

He plans to hold a farewell party before the 'final post' some time after September 30.

He added: "I think the impact of this decision will become clear be at Christmas when we were always extremely busy."

Around 150 residents attended a town hall meeting with post office managers.

And hundreds more signed petitions and personally responded to the public consultation which ended on August 4.

Doubts were cast about the exercise even before it began when a secret map was published on the internet by mistake in November, which suggested some decisions had already been made.

Coun Bill Gifford (Lib Dem, Milverton) said: "To me it seems like a sham. It feels like they'd already taken a decision. None of our arguments for keeping it open have been properly addressed.

"It is a tragedy that such a well-used, efficient and friendly community facility is going and they haven't even said how much it will save them."

Objectors pointed out that the branch serves around 400 people a day and its closure would mean no service in western Leamington. There is also no direct route to the alternative Priory Terrace or Clarendon branches.

Warwick and Leamington MP James Plaskitt has written to the company's chief executive calling for a "point by point" response.

He said: "Post Office cannot be allowed simply to brush our arguments aside. Rationalisation I accept - but decimation I don't."

Coun Chris Davis (Lib Dem, Milverton) said: "This decision will have a sad impact on the viability of the Dell shopping area as the key attraction is removed and ex-customers are forced to join long queues elsewhere in the town.

"Our sympathy and gratitude go to Jay and his staff for the courteous and efficient service they have provided to Milverton residents over many years."

Post Office Ltd's network development manager Mark Partington said the decision had "not been taken lightly" and all comments had been "carefully considered".

Coun Chris White (Con, Warwick South) said: "I am extremely disappointed about the closures.