A SURVEY has revealed that Harrow's postal service is the second worst in London for the delivery of first class mail.

Postwatch, the government body which deals with complaints about postal services, has found that Harrow achieved a next day delivery rate for first class mail of only 83.7 per cent, well below the target of 92 per cent.

The rating, from April to November 2001, places the borough as the second lowest in the capital and is a real concern for businesses.

Robert Goodman, who owns Robert Goodman Associates in High Street, Wealdstone, said that although there has been some improvement recently, his company has suffered in the past.

"The post was not turning up until 2pm or 3pm. We spoke to the driver delivering our mail and he didn't seem to understand the urgency of having it delivered on time. A lot of the postmen we've spoken to say that there is a shortage of staff."

Kay Dixon, chairwoman of Postwatch Greater London, added: "Many businesses still rely on the post for the sending and receiving of cheques, invoices and contracts.

"For domestic users, too, real inconvenience is caused by delayed letters. Now that the new Mail Centre at Greenford is operational, I hope that we shall see a real improvement."

A spokeswoman for Consignia refused to comment.