ROYAL Mail has issued a blanket ban on postal deliveries to two Padgate streets after a dog bit one of its staff.

The incident happened on Woodvale Close, however the ban has also been imposed on the adjoining Sealand Close, which is home to a number of elderly residents.

And these residents say they are being deprived of vital medical prescriptions which are usually delivered by post.

“There are roughly 15 elderly people living in bungalows in this area and we receive our medication through the post,” said one Sealand Close resident.

“Because of the ban, we are being made to trek across town and collect our letters and parcels from the main delivery office on Milner Street.

“Most elderly residents struggle to get out and about as it is without having to get at least two buses to get there and then cross Liverpool Road, which is always really busy.”

They also say Royal Mail should be doing more to help elderly residents who have been left feeling isolated by an incident which did not even take place in their street.

“People who are well into their 80s should not be made to go through all this just to receive their post,” the resident continued.

In response to residents who have been without post for almost two weeks, a Royal Mail spokesperson said: “The suspension of delivery to Woodvale Close and Sealand Close is due to a serious dog bite on one of our staff.

“We have reported the animal in question to the police and will carry out a further risk assessment as soon as we possibly can.

“We are very sorry for the inconvenience to other customers, but we need to be reassured that the measures put in place protect the safety and welfare of our staff.

“In the meantime, customers' mail is being held for them at Warrington Delivery Office until we can resolve this matter.”

READ > Dad led police on 60mph chase through town's streets while high on drugs

The spokesman added: “Last year there were 2,470 dog attacks on postmen and women in the UK, and we only suspend deliveries as a last resort when the safety of our staff is at risk.

“If they are unable to travel to the delivery office, customers can instead arrange to have their mail delivered to an alternative address in the local area.

“Anyone with concerns about their mail can contact our Customer Services team on 03457 740740.”