Postal workers in Cupar are on strike for the second time in the space of a month in support of a sacked colleague.
David Mitchell said he has been “overwhelmed” at the show of solidarity he has seen as he continues his fight to get his job back after he was dismissed for allegedly stealing mail.
Mr Mitchell had been accused of stealing a greetings card with cash and gift vouchers inside, despite bosses having no clear evidence against him, and he was sacked in December 2014.
The 57-year-old won his case at an employment tribunal and a judge has twice ordered Royal Mail to reinstate him, but twice local management have refused.
More than 40 posties walked out for 24 hours prior to Christmas in support of his cause, and roughly the same number did likewise from 8.30am in Cupar on Monday morning as Mr Mitchell continues to push for reinstatement.
Kenny Logan, local branch secretary of the Communication Workers Union, said he was “extremely concerned” about Royal Mail’s stance and warned the strike action could escalate beyond the Cupar sorting office.
A Royal Mail spokesperson said: “Royal Mail is disappointed that the Communications Workers Union has again taken strike action at Cupar Delivery office today.
“We are out delivering mail to nearly all our customers in Cupar today and the enquiry office remains open for customers to pick up mail.
“Royal Mail continues to work with our trade union and people locally to resolve this issue and we apologise to our customers for any inconvenience caused.”
For more on this story, see Tuesday’s Courier.
Photo by George McLuskie