A ROSSENDALE postman is under investigation after 13,000 items of post dating as far back as 2009 were found at a house.

The unnamed postie, who has been suspended by the Royal Mail, was responsible for delivering letters to houses in the Bacup area until bosses became suspicious his round wasn’t being completed properly.

As part of the investigation the Royal Mail, which has its own prosecuting powers, discovered the undelivered items at an unspecified address.

Residents in the Bacup area affected by the thefts have now had their post returned to them with a letter from the Royal Mail customer services department apologising for the delay.

Spokesman for the Royal Mail, Marie Gray, said: “Following a Royal Mail investigation, a large quantity of mail was recovered which had been due for delivery in the Bacup area.

"The mail has been delivered with a letter of apology, and we apologise to customers for any inconvenience.”

Retired postman and Bacup councillor Jimmy Eaton said: “My concern is that people depend on the Royal Mail and postmen and women are in a position of trust.

"One of my neighbours is looking for work and has been applying for jobs.

"Not receiving his post could of affected his chances.”