SOME residents in Basingstoke say they have not had post for a week after Royal Mail announced problems in the town with deliveries.

As previously reported, Royal Mail announced on Monday, December 11 that some areas of Basingstoke and Deane are experiencing disruption caused by sickness absences, vacancies and an increased demand during the Christmas period.

A spokesperson for Royal Mail told the Gazette that “mail continues to be delivered to homes daily in the area”.

However, some residents say the problems are much worse.

READ MORE: Royal Mail gives update on postal issues in Basingstoke

Sue Clarke, from Cliddesden Road, Cranbourne, said: “As far as I can tell we have not had any post for a week. The worrying thing is, if this is the case and I am not mistaken, how are they going to catch up and get back to normal if there is a backlog?”

Janice Lark, from Highfields Estate, near Worting, said she has been experiencing problems with post all year.

She told the Gazette: “This has been going on for most of the year. Sometimes we get post just once a week.

“My birthday was at the end of November and all my friends and family sent my cards first class in good time from Cornwall. I received them finally seven days after my birthday.

SEE ALSO: Royal Mail announces disruption to deliveries in Basingstoke because of 'office issues'

“I did phone up and complain and was told that first class is not considered late until 10 days after posting. I informed them that there were taking money under false pretences as they advertise delivery around two-day delivery.”

Andrew Narramore, from Brighton Hill, said post is delivered in huge bundles and is often left hanging out of the letterbox. 

He added: “On one occasion, letters were left on the ground, by the door, and in full view of passers by.

“We have been reduced to two deliveries per week, very rarely three, since last June.

“They [Royal Mail] have offered no apology, no information and no communication.”

Mr Narramore said he has complained to Royal Mail but said nothing has been done, and described Royal Mail as “not fit for purpose”.

A Royal Mail spokesperson said: "While there have been some delays recently, there is no mail that is being delayed for weeks or other significant periods of time and the majority of routes in the area are seeing daily deliveries.

"However, due to lower staffing levels from vacancies and sick absence, a small number of routes are being rotated and deliveries are being made every other day where necessary."