Dumfriesshire MP David Mundell recently paid a visit to Thornhill sorting office to see first-hand the scale of the operation faced by postmen and women across the country at this time of year. Mr Mundell met workers and learned about how they cope with the huge increase in mail volume over the festive period.
After his early morning visit, he was full of praise for the staff and admitted he was impressed by their 'can-do' attitude, even in extreme weather conditions.
Commenting afterwards, Mr Mundell said: "It was great to meet some of the hardest workers at this time of year - our posties. I saw for myself the logistical challenge of this sorting and delivery operation and was very impressed by the enthusiasm and motivation of the staff at Thornhill sorting office.
“The increasing popularity of internet shopping means that it is not just cards and parcels being sorted and delivered, but more weird and wonderful packages of all shapes and sizes! Many people perhaps don't realise that our postal workers often work through the night, and venturing out on bitterly cold, dark mornings is just par for the course at this time of year.
“I commend the staff for their commitment to the job, and their determination to ensure that Christmas cards and gifts arrive on time for customers even in the most rural areas."