AN OUTBREAK of Covid-19 at the Basingstoke delivery office has resulted in postal delays across the town this week.

Royal Mail has now confirmed why residents in Basingstoke have experienced delays to receiving post this week, explaining that “a number of colleagues have tested positive for coronavirus at the Basingstoke delivery office” in Priestley Road. 

As previously reported, residents in the town have reported problems with post this week, with some areas of the town receiving no post at all on Friday and Saturday.

Royal Mail initially told the Gazette it would investigate the matter on Monday.

However, a spokesperson for Royal Mail has now confirmed the cause of the problems, saying: “Every decision we make puts the health of our people and customers first.

“A number of colleagues have tested positive for coronavirus at the Basingstoke Delivery Office. They are now at home recovering, and we wish them a speedy recovery.

“More colleagues are self-isolating as a result of Test and Trace guidance. We are taking all necessary precautions and preventative measures, and we are working hard to deliver as normal a service as we can.”

They added: “Since the start of the crisis, we have said that despite our best endeavours, it is possible that some areas of the country may experience a reduction in service levels due to the ongoing impact of Covid-related staff absences and necessary social distancing measures at local mail centres and delivery offices. We thank any impacted customers for their patience and understanding.”