STROUD MP Neil Carmichael delivered a message of gratitude to workers at the Royal Mail sorting office in Salmon Springs when he visited them on Monday, December 9.

The Conservative politician was keen to thank staff for their efforts over the busy festive period.

Mr Carmichael was given a tour of the office and introduced to the postmen and women who are busy sorting and delivering cards in the run-up to Christmas.

Speaking at the Salmon Springs office, Mr Carmichael, said: “It was great to meet the dedicated, hard-working Royal Mail postmen and women at Stroud delivery office and to see first-hand just how much effort they put into delivering for people at this time of year.

“I’d like to thank them for their efforts and wish them all the best over the busy festive period.”

Andy Yarworth, manager at the Stroud delivery office, said: “Our people pull out all the stops throughout the year to ensure that mail is delivered quickly, but even more so over the busy festive period.

“We are grateful that Neil came along to see the hard work that goes on behind the scenes.”

Mr Carmichael's visit came after it emerged last month that Stroud receives target-beating service from Royal Mail, with 93.1% of first class mail being delivered on time the next business day after posting.

To ensure cards and presents destined for love-ones arrive in time for Christmas this year, the Royal Mail is recommending that all items sent first class are posted by Friday, December 20.

Items sent by second class post should be dispatched on or before Wednesday, December 18.