The scheme will allow customers to bypass the traditional Post Office queue and use their debit or credit cards to withdraw dollars or euros at the machines. Exchange rates at the new ATMs match rates offered at the counters.

Foreign exchange ATMs are already available at some airports although customers using these machines are usually subjected to higher rates than those offered by the Post Office. Marks and Spencer also recently brought the machines into 21 stores and HSBC is hoping to introduce them to shopping centres and train stations.

If the Post Office scheme proves to be successful then the ATMs could be erected at branches throughout the UK.

“It will take the pressure of queues. It will be much more convenient,” said Helen Warburton of Post Office travel.