Wildcat strikes cause post chaos

London's mail service was thrown into chaos today after thousands of Post Office staff went on a series of wildcat strikes.

Union members claimed up to 6,000 staff staged unofficial walkouts across London over separate issues, including pay and the suspension of colleagues. They warned that the disputes could worsen in the next few days.

The Communications Workers Union, which represents postal workers, condemned the strikes.

Official Chris Proctor said: "We think it is terrible workers have walked out and are urging them to stop." Postal areas affected include W1, WC1, WC2 and Paddington, as well as parts of north, west and east London, and Dartford.

Two weeks ago a one-day strike by postal staff and council workers over London weighting caused severe disruption in the capital.

The Royal Mail said only 2,000 staff were on strike today.

Roger Baynes, Royal Mail head of operations, said: "The union tells us it disowns this wildcat action. Let them prove it by working with us to get their members back to work."