19/12/08 - Thanking the Royal Mail

Conservative candidate for Middlesbrough South & East Cleveland, Paul Bristow, visited the Royal Mail delivery office in Guisborough the Friday morningbefore Christmas, which was expected to be the busiest day of the year.

With customers sending Christmas cards and receiving presents through the post, the Royal Mail can expect to be between 15-20% busier at Christmas time.

Paul met with Mr Mark Grange the manager of the delivery office and with other members of staff.

Speaking after his visit, Paul said:

Royal Mail staff do an exceptional job, especially at Christmas. We all value a reliable mail service particularly at this time of year. I wanted to meet some of them to show support and thank them for the long and early hours they keep.

Despite the festive rush, the effects of the recession are evident as it is estimated the number of deliveries are about 5% fewer in Guisborough this year than last. Moreover, more and more people are sending Christmas cards by email rather than through the post.

The visit also came days after a Government backed review of the Royal Mail suggested that commercial partners be brought in to run aspects of the service.

Paul added:

It is crucial that a universal postal service across the country is preserved. The public, Royal Mail staff and businesses need clarity from the Government on the future of the service as soon as possible.