The Post Office has apologised for the "unacceptable" level of service at a town's post office.

In a letter to Wantage MP Robert Jackson, retail network manager Scott Walters said: "We set targets for our offices and closely monitor individual outlet performance...we are aware that Wallingford Post Office is currently not meeting our standards and that queuing times are unacceptable."

He added that the temporary closure of Benson and Cholsey post offices was no excuse as the extra business should have been absorbed.

"Unfortunately, in the case of Wallingford, staff shortages have exacerbated the problem," he said.

The admission follows complaints from residents.

Derrick Hoare, of Brookmead Drive, asked the town council to intervene.

He said: "You often spend a long time queuing, and for elderly people it's not good. Staff do their best, but it is rare for all the work stations to be open at once."

A recruitment drive is under way in association with TM Retail, the company that has the post office franchise in Martin the Newsagent.