TALKS are continuing today in an attempt to end an unofficial strike by postal workers at Dartford's Royal Mail sorting office.

The strikers began the action last Tuesday following the suspension of a colleague. Union officials said a driver was suspended after refusing to move mail to a temporary office staffed by unskilled labour.

The industrial action, involving around 400 members, has continued despite the employee being reinstated.

The CWU said the striking staff had not resumed their normal duties work because the return-to-work agreement offered committed them to changes in their working practises.

But Royal Mail insist the changes have been agreed by the union nationally and stress that the strike is illegal.

In a statement, Royal Mail has apologised to businessess and individuals affected and reiterated its commitment to keeping collections and deliveries as normal as possible through the efforts of management volunteers.