Last week some folk across Oldham and Saddleworth complained they only received delivery of mail on one day.
Others say they had not received any mail between Monday and Thursday.
In a response received today (Tuesday), a Royal Mail spokesperson said: ”Because of the volume of mail received ahead of Christmas and a spike in sickness absence at the local delivery office, deliveries in Oldham took place at least every other day the week before last.
“Our posties worked to clear this backlog last week and service should return to normal this week.
“During exceptionally busy periods like Christmas, it is sometimes logistically necessary to clear parcels out of our delivery offices first.
“Parcels take up far more space than letters, and their sheer number during the festive season means they can build up, block walkways and present a health and safety risk to posties.
“Removing them first allows all mail, including letters, to keep moving and is a necessary part of our planning.”
