TWO of Irvine’s politicians spread some Christmas cheer to posties recently.

Brian Donohoe MP and Margaret McDougall MSP popped into Irvine’s Royal Mail delivery office to pass on their encouragement to postmen and women at their busiest time of the year.

Both were shown around by Irvine Delivery Office Manager Bruce Connell and were introduced to the hard-working postmen and women who were sorting and delivering Irvine’s mail in the run-up to Christmas Mr Donohoe said: “It was great to meet postmen and women at Royal Mail’s Irvine delivery office and see first-hand just how much effort they put into delivering for people at this time of year.

“Our postal workers do such an important job at this time of year and help to deliver Christmas for many people and families in our area.

“I would like to thank them for their efforts and wish them all the best over the busy festive period.” Mr Connell commented: “Our postmen and women are working extremely hard to deliver Christmas cards, letters and parcels to people across Irvine.

“We are grateful that Brian Donohoe and Margaret McDougall visited the office to see our operation and to support the team during our busiest time of year.

Royal Mail have issued a reminder that the last recommended posting dates for Christmas are Thursday, December 18 (Second Class), Saturday, December 20 (First Class), Tuesday, December 23 (Special Delivery).

Customers can also help out by ensuring that all letters, cards and parcels are delivered as quickly and efficiently as possible by taking a few easy steps: Post early – Avoid disappointment by posting your cards and parcels early. Use a postcode – A clearly addressed card or parcel, with a postcode, and return address on the back of the envelope, will ensure quick and efficient delivery.

Use Special Delivery – For valuable packages and parcels guarantee delivery with Royal Mail’s Special Delivery, which means your gift is tracked, traced and insured against loss.

For more information about Royal Mail’s last recommended posting dates visit: www.royalmail.com or call 03457 740 740.