IT is the end of an era and the start of a new chapter for Puriton Post Office.

Sandra Tizzard, who has been the postmistress there for the past 27 years, is handing over the premises, with the Post Office set for a revamp in the coming weeks.

The Post Office has been in Sandra's family for 47 years, and she said it was a 'strange feeling' to be leaving, but was pleased Puriton would be keeping its Post Office service.

"The feedback has been very positive and I would like to thank everyone for their kind words since I made the announcement," Sandra said.

"It is a really valued service, particularly no there is no convenience store or bank in the town, the elderly population really rely on the Post Office.

"It is amazing really, I served people when I was younger and now I serve their kids and even grandchildren."

Sandra says she plans to take a well-earned couple of months off once the handover is complete.

The branch will close on Friday May 24 at noon for a full re-fit of the premises and it is due to reopen on Thursday, June 13 at 1pm.

The new opening hours will be Monday to Friday 8am to 1pm and 2pm to 8pm; Saturday, 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 6pm and Sunday 10am to 1pm.

The Post Office is being taken over by Keir Ritchie and his partner Heidi Haynes, both of whom had successful careers in London but decided they wanted to move to enjoy a quieter pace of life.

"We have already made a lot of friends and everyone here has been very welcoming," Mr Ritchie said.

"Although the new Post Office will be renovated and more modern, the building has been here around 300 years and we want to retain the rustic village feel too.

"We are looking forward to serving the village and I would like to thank Sandra for all her help and advice during the handover process."