Offices earmarked for the axe are due to be revealed next Wednesday — but no final decision will be taken until after a six-week public consultation.

The cuts are part of the Post Office's controversial 'Network Change' programme, which will see some 2500 rural post offices across the UK close and up to 500 'outreach' services created.

The Post Office Ltd. is remaining tight-lipped about which offices could be under threat, but in accordance with government guidelines, a consultation process must take place following the announcement of the proposed closures.

This will involve councils, community councils and the public, and could involve public meetings if they are requested.

The watchdog body Postwatch has pledged that it will seek to ensure that decisions the Post Office take reflect the evidence gathered during the public consultation period.

In the meantime, Sir Menzies Campbell MP and Iain Smith MSP have vowed to fight against any post office closures in north east Fife.

Sir Menzies said: "The loss of any local post offices will hit communities in north east Fife hard.

Post offices are vital assets for many local people and any closure will likely cause difficulties, particularly for older people and those with mobility problems.

"We will continue to fight against closures."