Snow stops Bristol postal deliveries

Postmen across Bristol are refusing to carry out deliveries because of the bad weather.

Delivery offices in Montpelier, Bedminster and Patchway are all understood to be affected.

The Communication Workers Unions says it's been "inundated" by calls from many of its 1,600 members in the Bristol area who are concerned about the weather conditions and won't go out on their rounds.

One postman, who works at Patchway but did not want to be named, said: "We're being told it's safe to go out and do deliveries but we're not being given the proper safety equipment.

"You just have to look outside to see people falling over and they're not carrying 15 kilos."

The CWU also claims that Royal Mail management in Bristol is telling workers that refusing to go out would be considered as unofficial industrial action.

One worker told the Bristol Post: "We don't normally have weather like this, but they are completely unprepared.

"In London on Tuesday all deliveries were cancelled, safety was thought to be more important but why is Bristol any different to London?

"I think common sense should prevail. A couple of people have gone out but I'm not.

"A lot of people are refusing to go out, it's just a stupid decision."

Deliveries in the Bristol area normally take place between 6am and 2pm.

David Wilshire, branch secretary of the Bristol and district branch of the communication workers union, said: "Because of the weather conditions, we've been inundated with phone calls.

"People shouldn't go out if the feel as individuals they're putting their safety at risk."

A Royal Mail spokesman denied union claims that staff were being forced to go out if it was not safe.

He said: "We are  adopting a safety first approach to deliveries and we are not forcing anyone to undertake their duties if it is not safe to do so. 

"For example the despatch of mail from the Bristol Mail Centre to our network of delivery offices was delayed this morning until road conditions had improved.

"Royal Mail collection and deliveries have been subject to disruption as a result of the adverse weather conditions and we apologise to customers for any inconvenience.

"We continue to do everything possible to keep the mail moving and our people safe and deliveries are taking place where possible.

"If there are any concerns then union health and safety representatives are available to speak to management."