A LONG and happy era has ended at Ambleside’s busy and popular post office after owners Robin and Karen Love stepped down after 23 years.

But the good news is that a local couple, Steven and Sharon Crook, have taken up the reins and a major refurbishment is set to take place which will hopefully ensure a long and successful future for a well-loved community facility.

“This is a new venture for both of us and we have some exciting plans that will be implemented in May,” said Mr Crook.

When Mr and Mrs Love took over the post office back in 1996, they set about using their past experience in business and finance to develop the enterprise, and under their stewardship it grew to incorporate the Ambleside Hub, with a tourist information centre and a busy card and gift shop being added to its facilities.

Since the closure of Ambleside’s three banks, the Post Office has also provided day to day banking services for those holding accounts with high street banks and is a key feature of the local community.

Mr and Mrs Crook said they were excited but also a little daunted to be taking over the running of such a successful and popular business.

And they have confirmed that a two position main counter, a facility which was long fought for by Mr and Mrs Love, will be included as part of the refurbishment, which will also include new lighting for the gift shop and also modernisation of the internal and external Tourist Information service for both visitors and advertisers.

The Post Office will close temporarily from May 10-17 inclusive to allow for its transformation.

Mr and Mrs Love meanwhile said their retirement would allow them to devote more time to community causes, though they will still carry out occasional relief stints at other post offices.