A building that is part of Blackpool's history closed its doors for the final time today as the last post sounded for the Abingdon Street post office.

After almost a century as the resort's central post office, the Grade II listed building closed despite a concerted campaign to prevent its demise.

From Thursday, postal services have been transferred to the basement of WH Smith on Bank Hey Street.

After the final customers were served, staff, many of whom dressed up for the occasion, held a party to mark the closure.

Since the closure was announced by Royal Mail in April, campaigners have organised petitions and taken to the streets in opposition to the plans.

Pleas for the office to stay open came from across the political spectrum with Blackpool MPs Gordon Marsden and Joan Humble, along with prospective Conservative parliamentary candidates Ron Bell and Paul Maynard, all calling for a change of heart.

Council leader, Peter Callow, said: "It's a very sad day for the town, it's a beautiful building, and whatever happens to it we need to make sure that it is something that benefits the town, and not another wine bar or pub.

"In the last few days people have started asking me about the post boxes outside the building, and what will happen to them.

"The post office need to make sure they have a provision in place for post boxes in that area of town, if the current ones are to be sealed. I'm not sure they've even thought about their customers."

The WH Smith town centre store will offer the full range of more than 170 Post Office products and services and will have longer opening hours than the Abingdon Street site.

WH Smith Regional Manager, Ian Rowley said: "At a time when many offices are under threat of closure, this partnership safeguards the future of main post office services for the local community.

"We are totally committed to ensuring customers get the best possible service at the new branch."

Customers using the Abingdon Street office on its final afternoon expressed regret at its closure.

Doreen Caveney, 82, said: "I've been using this wonderful building for 62 years since I moved to Blackpool.

"I suppose it's all about money nowadays though and it's been done to cut costs."

Joyce Carter, 81, of Talbot Road, Blackpool, uses a disability scooter when she collects her pension.

She said: "At WH Smith I will have to use a lift after I collect my pension. I am very apprehensive as once in the lift I could be at the mercy of anyone.

"I suppose I will have to take someone with me every time now."

Cameron Jones, 51, said: "Closing this historic building will have a bad effect on this part of town and can't be good for Blackpool.

"In October every year I distribute poppies for the British Legion from outside so I now how busy it is and how much affection for the building the people of Blackpool have."

The renaissance style building was first opened to the public in 1910, it became the resort's 28th listed building in 1991.

The two main entrances have lintels which are decorated with four sculptures of Atlanteans.

Royal Mail have confirmed that the building is currently up for sale but has not yet attracted a buyer.