Postal workers went on strike today, after last-minute talks between Royal Mail and the Communication Workers Union failed.

Union members walked out at midday, signalling the start of two 48-hour strikes over a dispute about pay and Royal Mail's modernisation plans.

Residents in Watford can expect further delays to packages and parcels being sent to the area. The service is still recovering from previous industrial action held in July.

A Royal Mail representative said: "We continue to urge the CWU to work with us to modernise the business and to help secure a successful future for the company and its people in the competitive market in which we now operate."

Postal workers in Watford have also been balloted for additional localised action, in opposition to a change in start and finish times, the cancellation of Sunday collections and the use of agency casuals at the sorting office in Ascot Road. A result is expected to be announced today (Thursday).