The local branch of the party, which catapulted onto the national scene with its performance at the general election in July, canvassed the town for its petition to prevent the branch’s closure.
Party members were joined by Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Reform UK in Romsey and Southampton North Paul Barrett, 53 from Totton.
READ MORE: Caroline Nokes takes fight to save Romsey Post Office to London
Paul Barrett, 53, Christina Pointer, 37 and Harry Sheffield, 68 (Image: Charles Elliman) Paul said: “I was just talking to a lady […] this morning and she said, ‘I just cannot do online’. She wants to see people. She wants that personal approach rather than just going online.”
Nigel Farage’s party says the closure of the post office will disproportionately affect the town, which is home to a number of elderly people.
Members also stated they were concerned about the impact the closure could have on businesses. Paul said: “If they have to walk to Botley Road four to five times a day that’ll have a knock-on effect.”
READ MORE: Romsey Post Office: petitions to save ‘vital service’ gain momentum
Harry Sheffield, 68, a retired engineering salesman from Stockbridge, asked if the post office could be given a hybrid use.
The Test Valley native said: “That type of building could do other commercial activity, which could delay its closure. I’m surprised that hasn’t happened in more places to date.”
Christina Pointer, 37, central councillor for Reform UK, from Romsey, said: “The alternative is quite far out of the town centre. If you don’t drive, it would be a bus fare and that would be expensive.
“We feel it’s very important for it to stay open […] It’s used by a large amount of people in the town – there was a queue outside the door the other day.”
Reform’s petition comes only weeks after Liberal Democrat town councillors launched their petition and Romsey and Southampton North MP Caroline Nokes handed in more than 2,000 signatures to Post Office HQ.
Asked why they chose to do their own petition and not join in with the activities of other parties, Reform said they enjoy substantial support in the community.
Paul said: “Just because we’re not one of the established parties does not mean we care any less.”