The way post is delivered in Shipley has changed in a move Royal Mail says will make the service more efficient and easier for staff.

The company has started using revised delivery routes and made alterations which mean postmen and women will no longer have to carry heavy bags.

The Communications Workers Union said the changes were part of a national programme and welcomed by members.

Bradford and District union branch secretary Bob Hulme said: “Rather than everyone going out there’ll be two people in a vehicle and all the mail will be delivered from that vehicle. It actually takes the weight off postmen’s backs. It does make their lives easier.”

He added: “It does improve the way we deliver mail, and it shouldn’t affect the customer.”

The Royal Mail has studied the best way to deliver post because the way people communicate has changed, with fewer letters being posted.

A company spokesman said: “We also deliver more larger items and so we are investing in new equipment to carry these items to customers even more securely.”

People living in the Shipley area have been sent a letter explaining the changes.

Royal Mail will continue to deliver in the morning and for a longer period during the day, with many people getting their post by lunchtime.

The time customers receive mail will depend on where they live on the new delivery route, and this may be later or earlier than previous delivery times. When there is a lot of post, the delivery times may need to change.

Royal Mail’s collections and delivery sector manager Martin Bogg said: “We are proud of the high regard in which our postmen and women are held in Shipley. The changes to delivery routes will mean that a member of our local and experienced team will still be delivering to our customers in Shipley.”