Post Offices are vital to the success of online businesses, according to a report from auction site eBay, which said the digital economy must have good parcel delivery services in order to work.

More than half of online firms believe their local Post Office is crucial to their success, the Online Business Index recently revealed, particularly as 44 per cent of such businesses are based in rural areas.

Bryanne Melville, a trader in traditional kilts and Scottish clothing, said: "There's no way I could find enough customers if I had to rely on my local area alone.

"Together, the internet and my local post office allow me to reach a global market."

Jill Swingler, who trades in beanbags for the home and office, added that locally-provided parcel delivery services allow her to run the business that she loves.

"They are also helping companies like mine to create employment in areas where jobs are few and far between," she commented.

eBay recently announced the launch of its new Fashion Outlet, which allows shoppers to place order for parcel deliveries direct from a wide variety of top brands and retailers.