Perranporth Post Office is to shut down.

Postmistress Jenny Callan is taking early retirement after nearly 22 years and the retailer buying her premises in the seaside resort has decided not to provide Post Office services.

The nearest post offices will be a few miles away at either Goonhavern or St Agnes.  

Jenny and her husband Michael took on Perranporth Post Office in St Pirans Road in November 2001.  

The couple had been living and working in the Manchester area before moving to Perranporth. They decided that instead of working for other people they wanted to run their own business – a post office. 

A few years later, there was the opportunity to expand the business when the shop next door became available and their retail offering trebled. 

Now customers are saying farewell ahead of when the post office closes on Wednesday, August 30. 

Looking back, Jenny said: “This is more than just running a Post Office. It is a way of life. We are at the hub of the village.  

“We have really enjoyed serving the residents all year round and in summer there are lots of tourists too. We managed to stay open throughout the pandemic and the community was very grateful that they could stay local. We were really busy. 

“The best thing about the postmistress is the people that come into the post office and shop that you really get to know. Michael and I also loved running our own business and deciding upon what retail to have alongside our post office and choosing which stock to sell. We are well-known for our cards and when we took on the adjoining shop we were really able to expand our card range and gifts. 

“The time is now right time for me to take early retirement as we have a buyer for the shop. Michael is already of retirement age and he is looking forward to having a well-earned rest. Michael’s not really had a chance to enjoy retirement as I’ve still been working full-time. He’s also recently finished serving as a local councillor for 12 years, so it is now time for us both to relax, maybe travel, and to keep fit.

“Customers are coming in to see us ahead of stepping down. They are happy that we both get the chance to retire, but they are really sad that we are going.” 

Jenny thanked Nicola Treweek for her service at the post office and shop for the past 18 years. Nicola has also decided to retire. 

Post Office area manager Cathryn Gee said: “It has always been a joy dealing with Jenny. The couple are highly regarded by their community – they have always gone the extra mile.”