ELDERLY and disabled people and those without access to a car will be left stranded if Post Office closure plans go ahead, according to Leigh's MP.

Andy Burnham, speaking at a meeting in Leigh to discuss the proposals, said the programme went too far and urged the Post Office to think again.

He also urged the Post Office to take into account the legacy of the coal and other traditional industries, which have left high levels of respiratory disease and mobility problems.

Those affected have difficulty walking long distances, including many people living close to the Plank Land and Scowcroft Street branches.

Leigh councillor Myra Whiteside, a former Post Office employee, also attended the meeting.

She said many elderly people without access to a car would be hit by the plans.

Post Office chiefs have promised to consider the points raised during the meeting.

They said the Post Offices which had been earmarked for closure had been chosen because the postmaster concerned had indicated a wish to retire.

Mr Burnham said: "We can't promise success in this campaign, but can promise to fight these plans all the way.

"Hundreds of people in my constituency will be left stranded and unable to reach a Post Office. That can't be right.

"Myra and I now have until October 27 to get as many signatures as we can on our petition before we present it to Parliament."