POSTMEN and women at the Royal Mail’s Johnstone delivery office have been praised for their hard work during the pandemic.

Renfrewshire South MSP Tom Arthur recently enjoyed a tour of the building, where he passed on his season’s greetings to the team as they prepare to deliver cards and gifts across Renfrewshire in time for Christmas.

The Johnstone-based politician was shown around the delivery office by manager James Donnelly and was introduced to postmen and women as they gear up for the festive season.

He also heard how the team have worked tirelessly over the past 18 months to keep communities connected and businesses trading.

Mr Arthur told The Gazette: “As key workers, Royal Mail staff have been working flat out with little respite throughout the pandemic and it is getting even busier in the run up to Christmas.

“It was great to meet the team here at Johnstone and to thank them in person for their extraordinary efforts. As we approach the Christmas season, they will be delivering Christmas parcels and cards, spreading a bit of cheer after what has been a very challenging year for many.

“I hope we can all do our bit by posting our cards and gifts early.

“On behalf of all my constituents in Renfrewshire South, thank you for everything you do.”

Mr Donnelly added: “We are proud to have played our part throughout the pandemic, keeping the community connected.

“There’s no doubt it has been challenging but we remain very grateful to our customers for their support and for keeping us so busy.

“Now we will be working even harder to deliver Christmas parcels and cards, so it was a real boost to have a visit from Tom Arthur to see the operation and to support the team.”

For information about recommended posting dates this Christmas, visit bit.ly/3lHJfuj.