CASH has been removed from a village post office as the branch remains shut during a probe into reported ‘Horizon issues’ as auditors delve into alleged discrepancies.
The branch, inside the village shop near Worcester, closed suddenly on August 3 and is expected to remain shut for several weeks with auditors spotted at the branch on Thursday.
A Post Office spokesperson said today (Friday): “Peopleton Post Office is temporarily closed for operational reasons. We are working closely with the operator to do a full review of the branch in order to identify and resolve any shortfall.
“As the branch is not currently open, and in order to protect the members of the community working in the shop, we felt it important to remove the cash from the branch yesterday.
SHUT: Peopleton Post Office (Image: James Connell/Newsquest)
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused to customers. Alternative Post Office branches include Drakes Broughton and Upper Snodbury.”
A letter has appeared on the main door and counter while auditors were seen at the branch on Thursday.
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The letter reads: “Dear Villagers, You will have noticed the Post Office was closed last week (3/8/2026) due to Horizon issues.
“The Committee has instigated an investigation into the Horizon anomalies, working with the Post Office to resolve these issues.
“The Post Office advises this could take several weeks and therefore we regretfully advise the Post Office will be closed during this investigation. We appreciate your continued support for the shop which will remain open during this period, subject to volunteer availability.
In addition, Amanda is off sick due to ongoing health issues.
We are grateful for your understanding.”
A villager living close to the branch said: “It’s ideal for elderly people in the village and people rely on it, particularly those who don’t have transport and who live on their own.”
A neighbour said: “The whole community has been impacted but there’s not a lot we can do about it.”
No details have been given about the investigation’s scope or next steps.
The Horizon scandal involved faulty Fujitsu accounting software, used between 1999 and 2015, which created false financial shortfalls at local branches.
The Post Office wrongly blamed and prosecuted more than 900 sub-postmasters for theft and fraud. Some faced bankruptcy or prison, while others died by suicide.
