On Tuesday Post Office Limited abandoned plans to axe the branch.

Sub postmistress Una Robinson, who runs the branch with her husband Frank, said: "I don't think I've talked about anything else for three months but today it's been nice to say something happy.

"The response has absolutely amazed me. The fact that the customers got behind us has been wonderful.

"We've been here 12 happy years and now we're looking forward to another 12 at least."

The branch, in Edge Lane, was earmarked for closure in July in place of Savile Town Post Office after it was given a reprieve.

Since then campaigners, local councillors and Dewsbury MP Shahid Malik have fought to save the popular post office, with hundreds turning up to public meetings and thousands signing petitions.

Mr Malik submitted a 38-page report telling Post Office Limited that the branch was "a key part of the local identity of a proud community."

He said more than half its customers were pensioners, the area was hilly, public transport was unreliable and expensive and closing a branch in a mainly white area after a reprieve for one in a largely Asian one could damage race relations.

This week Mr Malik said: "From the outset it was clear that we were mounting this campaign somewhat against all odds. Only one or two in 100 closure decisions are successfully contested. I'm overjoyed."

Coun Khizar Iqbal, who took a 2,500 name petition to Downing Street, added: "It's a victory for the community in Thornhill. I'm pleased that the strength of their feelings on this issue have finally been listened to. I'm absolutely delighted."

And Coun Salim Patel said: "In the past few weeks I've met so many people who need this vital service. It's wonderful news. It shows the way people of Thornhill united and with people power you can do anything."