WINCHESTER'S new post office opens at WH Smith tomorrow.

Postman Pat, pictured, is due to cut the ribbon to open the facility that controversially replaces the post office in Kings Walk.

Many local people fear that the new base will be too cramped and will offer a slower service.

WH Smith regional manager Ian Rowley said: "This move follows the successful relocation of post offices into WH Smith stores in 2006 and 2007, where customer feedback highlighted the benefits of the change, including shorter queues, longer opening hours and convenient location.

"At a time when many post offices are under threat of closure, the partnership between WH Smith and the post office safeguards the future of services for the local community."