AS THE prospect of postal chaos over Christmas looms, one of the borough's posties has defended the industrial action as essential to securing the future of the service.

The Communication Workers Union (CWU) announced today (October 8) that a postal ballot of its members had resulted in a three-to-one vote in favour of strikes.

Residents across Wanstead and Woodford could see post and packages severely delayed while workers mount action against cutting jobs and services.

Gary Coulson, a Royal Mail driver from Woodford, said he was confident the ballot would lead to industrial action.

He said: "The way I've heard it is that there's a very, very strong vote for industrial action, and I think that's quite right. We've got to stand up for our rights. It has to do with working conditions and all sorts of issues.”

Mr Coulson also highlighted that the public perception of postal workers was incorrect. He said: "People think that postal workers have an easy life but its nothing like that. We're out there all through the year, in all weathers.

"Another point that I want to get across is that people don't realise when we go on strike we actually lose our money. They think we still get paid but we don't. We're not just having a jolly-up.”

Dave Ward, CWU deputy general secretary, said in response to the result of the vote: "This is a huge vote of no confidence in Royal Mail management.

“The company has tried to make out that problems only exist in some local offices, but postal workers across the UK have now spoken and they say no to Royal Mail's arrogance."

Royal Mail continue to dispute the validity of the industrial action, especially with the annual Christmas period around the corner, which sees a rise in the number of letters and parcels being posted.

Managing director Mark Higson said: “As always, the company will be focusing on delivering excellent customer service over the vitally important run-up to Christmas when letter numbers reach their seasonal peak.

“Royal Mail calls on the CWU to abandon its unjustified strikes and to help the business deliver the service our customers deserve.

"We also again invite the union to re-engage with our agreed industrial relations framework at national and local level.”