When applying for a first time passport rules state you will need a countersignatory. On the official booklet it states the counter signer must know you for 2 yrs not be a relative, be over 18 and holder or current passport,also be a profesional person.On the post office print out on line it it doesnt say the countersigner must be a profesional person,Whos correct?
According to the guy in my local Post Office (when I got the forms there) there is a scheme whereby they can verify it in your presence. That was a few years ago, I don't know if it's still valid.
Whoever countersigns it must have known the applicant for two years and be able to recognise him/her. The guy in the Post Office may not qualify in those respects.
Canary are you sure you you don't mean Check and Send whereby the PO check your application before it goes to avoid any delays if you have any errors? The PO staff may not have known a person that well and for 2 years.