ST HELENS has some of the worst-hit postcodes in the nationwide Royal Mail delays, with certain residents waiting weeks for deliveries.

Royal Mail confirmed that while they are operating as normal, certain areas in the country will be experiencing delays due to local issues such as high levels of Covid-related self isolation or sick absences.

No collections or deliveries were made from December 25 to December 28, as well as January 1 to January 3, which has added to the backlog and delays for certain post offices.

In an updated statement, Royal Mail stated that as of Thursday, January 6, postcodes from WA9 to WA11 in St Helens are some of the "most impacted" in the country.

Covering areas from Rainford through to Sutton, this has resulted in certain residents waiting weeks for their deliveries.

Online, residents from all over St Helens have complained of delays, with some waiting for mail, parcels and even medication since before Christmas.

Rachel Turner, who lives on Manor Road in Haydock, said: "I’ve not had mail since the first week in December, and neither has tons of other people [...]  It’s absolutely ridiculous!

While she understands that the service is short staffed at present, Rachel added that this does not ease the frustration of waiting weeks for a delivery or queuing up at the sorting office in order to receive important mail.

A Royal Mail spokesperson said: “"We aim to deliver to all addresses we have mail for, six days a week. In a small number of local offices this may temporarily not be possible due to local issues such as COVID-related self-isolation, higher than usual levels of sickness absence, resourcing or other local factors.

"We are providing targeted support to the local offices affected by these issues. Our staff are continuing to work incredibly hard, as they have done throughout the pandemic, and we are thankful for all of their efforts and determination."

While the Christmas period has added to the strain on the postal service, customers may be entitled for compensation for products that have not been delivered three or more working days after the stated due date - with more information here.

For further queries or concerns, customers are advised to contact Royal Mail's customer service department with any queries or concerns on 08457 740 740 or via their website