Closure dates have been set for three sub-post offices in Brighton and Hove despite a wave of protests from customers.

The Post Office says one branch in Bates Road, Brighton, will shut on April 9 and two others in Ditchling Road and Havelock Road on April 12.

Despite the announcement, Brighton Pavilion Labour MP David Lepper is still hoping to persuade bosses to change their minds.

He is writing to the Post Office and is also meeting David Bland, chairman of Postwatch, next month.

Mr Lepper said it appeared a decision had been made on the closures even before a Postwatch meeting in Brighton last week.

He said: "Neighbourhoods can be badly affected by post office closures, which have a knock-on effect on other shops."

Elderly residents, from Nettleton Court and Dudeney Lodge have also been in touch with Mr Lepper's wife, Councillor Jeane Lepper, concerning the Ditchling Road closure.

Mrs Lepper said: "It appears the views of the people living nearby have not been considered at all and that the decision had already been made. I feel betrayed."

Donald Bollingbroke, chairman of Nettleton and Dudeney Tenants' Association said: "It seems we have been ignored."

A campaign to prevent the closure of two Hove sub post offices in Old Shoreham Road and Hangleton Way, is continuing.

Brighton and Hove councillors Brian Fitch and Gerry Kielty have sent petitions to shops and businesses in the area to rally support against the proposals.

They have produced posters, reading Save Our Post Office, which are being distributed to concerned residents.

Coun Fitch said: "Post Offices are a valuable part of the community and are essential for people who collect benefits and pensions.

"People will have to catch a bus to their nearest post office if these close and they should not have to make such a tortuous journey."

Sandra Freitas, 24, runs Hove Fish Bar next door to the post office in Hangleton.

She said: "If you're young and fit, the five-minute drive to the nearest post office is no big deal. It is the elderly, who have not got cars, who will suffer.

"I am appalled this post office could close, as it always seemed very busy to me."

George Hooper, Post Office head for the area, defended the decision.

He said: "Having met with the sub postmasters from both these branches and also with other local sub postmasters, we have concluded if Old Shoreham Road and North Hangleton branches were to close, it would improve the long-term prospects of the other branches in the area."

Residents who want to express views on the plans should write to Head of Area Post Office Ltd, c/o National Consultation Team, PO Box 641, St Albans, AL1 5XN.