A WALTHAMSTOW post office is set to be the first in London to re-open.

Residents were devastated when the sub-post office in Orford Road was closed last year along with 160 across London, despite fierce protesting by residents to keep it open, even holding a mock-funeral.

But tireless campaigning by the Village Association, which enlisted the help of a local businessman and lobbied local councillors, means the residents will get their post office counter back.

Businessman James Brundle, who co-owns the Eat 17 restaurant and Paul Wines shop in Orford Road made a six-figure offer to the Post Office to re-open a counter as part of a massive re-development of his shop and restaurant.

Mr Brundle, who co-owns the business with two brothers and a businesswoman, said: “Since the post office closed we've had so many customers coming in complaining about it. Most of them are elderly and have been travelling to Wood Street.

“The post office came down and liked our idea but said the financial burden is different now and that we would need co-investment to get it up and running.”

He said he has just received confirmation from Waltham Forest Council that they are prepared to co-invest for a period of four years and is set to sign the agreement this week.

This makes the post office the first in London to re-open, following a successful co-investment by Essex County Council with a shop in Buckhurst Hill.

Sue Carter, of the Walthamstow Village Association, said: “It is a massive result for people in the area. It is about everybody in the community pulling together.

“It is very important people do something for their area, it is no good waiting for the council to do it, you also have to do things yourself.

“But Cllr John Macklin was really helpful and supportive.”

Mr Brundle added: “It is a massive investment for us and we will probably lose money, but the co-investment will help and we will be able to take on the financial burden after four years.

“It is something the residents need and will hopefully bring people back to the village.”

Cllr John Macklin said: “I’m delighted that we have managed to secure funding for the residents’ post office plans.

“I have consistently said that my party is always to prepared to work with local people who approach us with practical ideas for greater community involvement in our local services and I hope this action sends a signal to residents that the Liberal Democrats intend to stick by that promise.”