Preseli Pembrokeshire AM Paul Davies was bitterly disappointed to hear the news of the post office closures. He said: "Labour seems determined to destroy our way of life here in rural Pembrokeshire.

"I am very angry that the consultation was such a short one – most government consultations last 12 weeks. It mustn't be forgotten that it is the Labour government driving this forward and trying to rush these closures through.

"A post office is not just a business because it provides so much more than just stamps, it is an essential public service to everyone in the community particularly to the elderly and vulnerable.

"In some of these rural areas we have already seen other vital services being lost and these closures will be a final devastating blow.

"In some communities such as Mathry there will be a much more far-reaching effect than just the closing of the post office. The shop that is run in conjunction with the post office may also now struggle to survive as well.

"I am particularly disappointed by the decision to close Clarbeston Road post office after the huge strength of 

feeling and support that was shown at both the public meeting and public protest. They were by far the biggest of all the meetings that I went to. I am also concerned that the outreach service replacing the post office will be calling at different times each day and will be inconvenient to use."

Speaking about the further consultation on the future of Bwlchygroes and Prendergast Post Offices, he added: "The news that they are looking further into the future of the post offices in these two communities is to be cautiously welcomed. It does at least appear as if they are taking the decision-making process a bit more seriously."