Postal Troop at RAF Akrotiri processing post in the run up to Christmas 171220 CREDIT BFBS.jpg — The Postal Troop at RAF Akrotiri dealing with mail in the run-up to Christmas.

Forces Charities

Warning that British troops serving overseas may not get presents in time for Christmas

There are fears that Armed Forces personnel may not get presents and cards from their loved ones in time for Christmas due to planned Royal Mail strikes.

The British Forces Post Office deadline to send Christmas post to troops overseas is set as Friday 2 December, but a consumer rights expert has warned that this deadline is "optimistic".

Speaking with The Telegraph, consumer rights expert Martyn James has said the industrial action will have a "knock-on impact" on any mail waiting to be delivered, meaning parcels posted in the days surrounding the strike are also likely to be affected.

This warning comes as members of the Communication Workers Union (CWU) voted in favour of carrying out further strike action planned throughout the festive period, including 9, 11, 14, 15, 23 and 24 December.

Forces families are able to send small parcels of up to 2kg in weight free of charge to British military serving overseas via Royal Mail services.

Small parcels must not exceed 45cm in length, 35cm in width and a depth of 16cm to qualify for free postage.

Families can also send larger parcels and items overseas via the BFPO system but will be charged at the standard internal UK postal rates, instead of the more expensive international charges civilians might have to pay.

Forces News has approached the Ministry of Defence and British Forces Post Office for comment.