A new report has criticised the government's programme to close around 2,500 post offices.

The government's efforts to close 2,500 post offices across the UK has been criticised by a new report.

According to the publication by the National Audit Office, the 18-month programme of closures was carried out within budget but in a way which left many small villages without postal services.

So-called outreach branches have not been set up on time, meaning many have had to seek post office alternatives.

Edward Leigh, the chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, said the consultation period put in place to cover the plans was also "little more than a sham".

He added: "The business department ran roughshod over local residents' concerns and bulldozed the proposals through."

The Lowestoft Journal recently reported that plans to temporarily close an outreach service in Wangford, Suffolk have been criticised by local people.

Article Added: 05/06/2009 14:34:13