Post offices should be transformed into small business hubs that offer services such as banking and advice, according to the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).

With a recent survey showing that almost 50% of small firms visit the Post Office several times a week the FSB have called on them to offer more to SMEs.

The FSB want Post Offices to be able to offer advice on insurance and banking, offer meeting room facilities to start-ups and micro businesses and provide dedicated advertising facilities to help small businesses reach other local businesses and potential customers.

"Small firms are not being given a fully operational service and are severely let down by the lack of business services available," said FSB chairman John Wright.

"Making post offices into small business hubs -including dedicated business desks and a full range of financial services - will not only ensure the survival of the country's post offices, but also the communities that they serve."