A ROW has broken out at a Royal Mail sorting office over claims of "intimidating" tactics by managers.

Members of the Communication Workers' Union, who are involved in a national dispute over pay and working conditions, have accused the Royal Mail of being heavyhanded by sending more than 30 managers to the depot in Short Street, Southend, this week.

Kev Martin, area delivery rep, said: "They bused in 30-plus managers to keep an eye on us. They have been following postmen on their rounds and have even taken some deliveries out themselves in their own private cars, which they are not insured to do."

Postmen have been working to rule - not doing any overtime and ensuring they take their breaks.

Mr Martin said: "This is not a go-slow. We aren't being difficult. It's just we are not coming in early anymore. We would come in an hour early to get on top of things and that was unpaid. Now we aren't doing that, it is pandemonium."

Bob Gibson, national officer for the union, added: "Royal Mail have been turning a blind eye to health and safety regulations and insurance matters.

"The way we are being treated is disgraceful. It is intimidating."

Posties also claim some rounds are coming back not delivered, as untrained casual staff have been brought in and do not know their routes.

A statement from Royal Mail said: "Royal Mail is simply maintaining customer service in Southend.

"No additional managers have been recruited.

"However, as always, we place our resource where it is needed to ensure mail deliveries are maintained.

"Furthermore, Royal Mail has a zero tolerance to any forms of bullying and harassment."

  • Delivery workers earn £256-£311 a week