Former councillor concerned with post delays in Whitehaven

Allan Forster, of Whitehaven, says that his mail has not been arriving on time. 

He lives in Hensingham and says that the late arrival of his post has caused several issues. In some instances, he claims that the late arrivals have made him miss hospital appointments, and in worst-case scenarios, first class mail has arrived around a month late. 

Allan was a councillor for the Hillcrest ward in Hensingham but has since stood down from the role. 

Mr Forster said: “There’s been a big issue with the mail, and it’s been going on for a few months now. 

“I had to ring the hospital up this morning as I’d missed appointments and in other cases, I haven’t had council papers through. 

“I don’t think I’m alone in this as I’ve heard it’s also been happening in places like Parton and Bransty. I think it’s something that needs to be highlighted.”

The Royal Mail has responded to these claims and has said the main causes are staff absences and vacancies in the office. 

A spokesperson said: “We would reassure customers that the vast majority of letters in the area are delivered on time.

“Unfortunately, some deliveries have been impacted by high levels of sick absence and vacancies at the office. However, we are actively recruiting and have a number of roles on offer.”

Royal Mail also said that they do not have any mail which would be a month late. 

Mr Forster continued: “I’m missing appointments and we’ve had weeks’ worth of mail arriving in one day. I’m receiving mail now which was sent in early March. 

“It’s creating problems, people might be waiting for important papers coming through and they may not receive them on time.

“I’d like to see something done about this soon.”