CHRISTMAS mail due north or south should be winging its way to post boxes around the county to arrive at overseas destinations by December 25.

The message from Royal Mail, with the help of Worcester engineer Steve Banks, is "Post Now!" if loved ones abroad are to receive their yuletide greetings.

The employee at the Wainwright Road mail centre, Blackpole, put on his full Mountie rig for the day to put across the message.

Royal Mail recommends international airmail is sent by Friday, December 7, for outside Europe, Monday, December 10, for Eastern Europe and Friday, December 14, for Western Europe and HM Forces.

Information about the correct postage for cards and packets can be found in the Royal Mail International Christmas leaflet at Post Offices, Royal Mail Enquiry Offices, the Customer Service Centre on 08457 740 740 and at www.royalmail.com