Maidstone's postmen are set to go on strike for one day, from 4am on Wednesday, August 19.

A source confirmed delivery staff in the town were to join others around the country protesting against Royal Mail policy.

It is believed sorting office staff in Maidstone have not yet decided whether to take action.

The Communication Workers Union says Royal Mail continues to refuse to negotiate over cuts and modernisation despite growing concern from workers. Deputy general secretary, Dave Ward said: "Postal workers are being hit hard with closures, cut-backs, a pay freeze and an increasingly bullying management that refuses to negotiate."

"Recent meetings cannot be called 'talks' as Royal Mail does all the talking and is not interested in the concerns or ideas of the CWU. While this attitude continues we have no choice than to press ahead with a national ballot for strike action.

"We are still willing to call off strike action and offer a three-month no-strike deal in return for meaningful negotiations."