Royal Mail strike could affect post in villages near Burnham

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PEOPLE living in villages near Burnham and Highbridge are being warned their post may not be delivered on three upcoming weekends after a series of strikes by Royal Mail workers was announced.

Staff at the depot in Bridgwater, who have been locked in a dispute with bosses over working agreements and staffing levels, have voted to take part in a series of strikes.

In total 65 workers voted for the action, with 17 against - representing a 79.3% ‘yes’ vote.

The result is there will be walkouts on three upcoming Saturdays – June 29, July 6 and July 13.

The three affected postcodes include TA6, which covers Pawlett, and TA7, which covers Puriton, Woolavington and some isolated areas on the Somerset Levels near Mark.

Area official for the Communication Workers Union, David Wilshire, said feelings were running high at the Bridgwater depot and further strikes could be held if no agreement is reached with Royal Mail.

He added: “The door is still open for talks but the ball is in Royal Mail’s court and there’s only a limited amount of time left.”

Rhys Jones, a spokesman for Royal Mail said: “It is disappointing that our colleagues have voted in favour of industrial action, however we remain hopeful that the issues can be resolved locally.

“We urge the CWU not to call our people out on strike action which can only hurt our customers and damage our drive to build a strong and sustainable future for Royal Mail.”