Ivinghoe Post Office reopens after shocking attempted ram raid and fire

Miraculously, the post office counter and shop, which sits behind security doors and has barred windows, was spared from the flames that shot upwards, lighting up the night sky.

The library, first floor hall and windows and the roof all suffered significant damage. Beacon Villages Community Library has been invited to relocate to a room in St Mary’s Church, Ivinghoe, for the next three months.

Harnam said: “The Post Office is open again as normal now, from August 21, and I’d really like to thank the local community for all their support.”

Access is via a side entrance that is clearly signposted, while the front door remains scaffolded awaiting full repairs by a Bucks Council contractor. Security guards remained in attendance for the reopening.

The ram raid happened between 3am and 4am on August 10, and the perpetrators had fled before police and the fire brigade arrived at the scene.

A shaken Harnam said: “It was very shocking and emotionally affecting to hear the bad news. The whole episode has been difficult, but over time I am trying to get back to normal. Everyone has been so supportive, while the Town Hall’s owner, Bucks Council, is doing a good job with the repairs.”

He added: “I’m very relieved it wasn’t all burned down, otherwise we would have lost everything. That would have been devastating. It was so unnecessary to set fire to this special building. Hopefully with the efforts of the community and police, these people should be caught and brought to justice.”

Two days later a similar ram raid took place at a shop in Wing and police say the two events may be connected. So far no-one has been arrested.

A stream of customers came into the Post Office after it reopened to warmly welcome Harnam back and offer their support, including those who had posted parcels the evening before the ram raid, who were relieved to find everything was still there undamaged, despite the shocking blaze.