Posties’ dog concerns not backed by police

The Royal Mail suspended deliveries to Woodville Road, in Canvey, three weeks ago after a postman was allegedly bitten by the animal.

However, Essex Police said it has investigated the issue and found there is no evidence the dog is dangerous.

A police spokesman said: “Officers have visited the owner and offered them advice on how to secure the dog.

“To the best of our knowledge they have taken reasonable steps to do so.

“We have no substantive evidence that this dog is dangerous but should anyone come forward with more information this will be investigated.”

But the police assurance has not satisfied Royal Mail workers.

Dave Joyce, health and safety officer for the Communication Workers Union, which represents posties, is writing to Essex Chief Constable Jim Barker-McCardle to urge him to take further action.

He said: “There has obviously been a breakdown in communication but hopefully by writing to the senior officer we can solve the problem.

“We are very keen to restore deliveries to the residents in the street, but we will not do so until the police investigation is concluded and there are measures in place that mean this dog is no longer a threat.”

Royal Mail suspended deliveries following a string of incidents involving the rottweiler in recent months.

Mr Joyce said a postman, who does not want to be named, had been run at by the animal three times before the attack happened on October 18.

The rottweiler is alleged to have bitten the postie on the thigh, although the owner denies the attack took place.

Royal Mail abandoned deliveries a fortnight later when a postman reported the dog was once again on the loose.

Mr Joyce added: “The bite was not a bad one but it punctured the skin and drew blood.

“We often find once a dog has nipped a postman it will do worse in the future.

“I know residents at the other end of the street are frustrated but as the dog has been loose in the road we have had to cancel all deliveries.”