A PLEA has been issued to residents not to stop using their local Post Office.

The desperate message comes from Millom Post Office following the Royal Mail's launch of its new home pick-up service.

The Cumbrian site posted an emotive plea on its Facebook page, reminding customers that if people stopped using its services, it may jeopardise its future.

The statement said: “You may have seen in the media that Royal Mail are now offering to collect mail from home addresses.

“This could be convenient if you are self-isolating or unable to get out the house for other reasons, but please note that every parcel not brought to the Post Office is vital revenue lost for that Post Office.

“By all means use this service if you have no other option, but please remember that your Post Office needs you.

“The old adage remains as true as ever: use it or lose it.”

Royal Mail started collecting parcels and mail from people’s homes last Wednesday.

The service was launched due to the coronavirus pandemic, which has prompted a rise in online shopping.

Despite this, Royal Mail has underlined that its new service should not stop people visiting Post Offices.

A Royal Mail spokesperson said: “This initiative is designed to complement Post Office’s services.

“It gives customers more choice and greater convenience in how they choose to send their parcels.

“It is particularly helpful for customers who are unable to leave their homes, particularly during the pandemic.

“There are of course many other reasons for customers to visit Post Offices including many additional Royal Mail services.

“We work in partnership with the Post Office and together we offer customers access to the UK’s most comprehensive postal network.”

The pick-up service will charge 72p per parcel plus postage costs and will be available throughout the whole week except on Sundays.

Despite Royal Mail witnessing an increase in parcel deliveries in recent years, it is still on track to make a loss in 2020.