A Solihull independent business is set to have to turn back to "nightmare" couriers as the town centre's Post Office is set to close.

Shakira, a team member at independent retailer Liv's, has warned businesses will face higher costs and delivery issues as TGJones - where the Post Office is based - closes.

The Mell Square shop will shut on Saturday 11 July, prompting concerns from residents, businesses and local politicians.

Shakira explained that Royal Mail's services had proved far more reliable, helping the business avoid issues with missing parcels and delayed deliveries.

She told Nub News: "Royal Mail has been so reliable, and it's been so easy for us.

"Now it's closing and we're having to go back to other couriers, which has been a nightmare in the past."

Liv's is an independent retailer specialising in furniture and home décor.

The business relies on delivery services to send products to customers, making reliable postage services particularly important.

Shakira said lost parcels can have a significant financial impact on small businesses, with compensation often failing to cover the value of missing stock.

She said: "We've lost money because of missing parcels and can only claim back a small amount.

"As an independent business, it really hits us."

She also expressed concerns about the impact the closure could have during the busy Christmas trading period.

"It's so sad to see it go," she said.

"We're terrified about what could happen this Christmas because last year was already difficult trying to ship orders out."

The employee also paid tribute to the Post Office staff, saying they had become a familiar and valued part of the local business community.

"I've got to know a lot of the staff and they're always so helpful," she said.

It's nice to have a familiar face who knows you and your business and now, we won't have that."

In response to the closure announcement in May this year, Cllr Karen Grinsell said: "We know that the closure of TGJones and the Post Office in Mell Square will be disappointing for many.

"While the decision on any future Post Office provision sits with Post Office Ltd, we are working to support potential franchise applications by exploring suitable premises within the town centre."

MP for Meridan and Solihull East, Saqib Bhatti, expressed concern about the closure earlier this year and called for a temporary replacement until a solution is found.

He said: "I recognise that achieving a long term solution may take time but in the interim I would be grateful if the Post Office could consider the provision of a mobile post office service as a temporary measure to help mitigate the immediate impact on residents and businesses while a permanent solution is found."