THE postal service in Taunton has been branded “third class” following changes to deliveries.

Posties have been using “new delivery methods and adopted new routes” across the TA postcode area since Monday.

Royal Mail says the new system means: *deliveries still being made in the morning but also later into the afternoon; *many customers still getting mail by lunchtime; *but some getting mail later, others maybe getting it earlier, depending on their address; *delivery arrangements and times adjusted when mail volumes vary.

One customer, John Verrier, said: “We used to get two posts a day, in the morning and after lunch.

“It’s been down to one for some time, but now it could arrive even later.

“It’s not as if it’s cheap first or second class, but the service is third class.”

A Royal Mail spokesman said it was modernising its operation “to maintain our services and keep our prices among the lowest in Europe”.

He said fewer letters are posted nowadays, so delivery routes are being organised for maximum efficiency, while new equipment will help cope with more larger items being sent.

He added: “These changes will require a period of adjustment for staff.

“However, Royal Mail will be doing everything possible to maintain a high level of service and thanks customers for their understanding.”

Regional operations director Geoff Braden said: “We’re proud of the high regard in which our postmen and women are held in Taunton.

“The local delivery team and I are fully committed to providing a high quality of service that’s as reliable and friendly as customers have come to expect from Royal Mail over many years.”