Ledbury's job centre in Bye Street will definitely close by next year and claimants seeking face-to-face help will have to travel to Malvern or Hereford.

An electronic 'Jobpoint' and customer access phone has already been installed at Herefordshire Council's St Katherine's offices as an alternative to travel.

Department of Work and Pensions spokesman Simon Ballinger said: "It became apparent in 2003 that the existing Ledbury Jobcentre premises would be unsuitable for conversion to new Jobcentre Plus standards."

He added that Hereford staff seconded to operate the Ledbury office will transfer back when it closes.