Post offices across Kent will see further strike action today.

Staff will stage a walk out today in industrial action organised by the Communication Workers Union (CWU) over changes to pay and pensions.

Branches affected include Ashford, Dartford, Faversham, Orpington, Sevenoaks, Sheerness, Sittingbourne, Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells.

CWU assistant secretary Andy Furey said: “All of the blame for this unfortunate turn of events is 100 per cent down to the intransigence of the company, who have launched an unprecedented attack on the jobs, job security, and pensions of thousands of hard-working and loyal Post Office workers.

“Our members want the Post Office management to pause its closure and privatisation programme, hold off on its planned pensions changes, and commit to sitting down with us and with the other key stakeholders of this Great British institution and, together, construct a lasting vision.

“We want to work together to build a positive future for the Post Office, its workforce and, of course, the people who we serve.

“The CWU can be a constructive partner to work with, but sadly, the people currently running the company have, so far, chosen the path of conflict and industrial disputes.”

Kevin Gilliland, Post Office’s network and sales director, said: “Experience tells us we can manage this effectively and minimise the impact on the communities who rely on our services.

“It will be business as usual in almost all of our network, with over 50,000 Post Office people on hand to support customers as they make their preparations for Christmas.”

The strike action called by CWU does not involve Royal Mail employees. Royal Mail has informed Post Office that it has robust contingency plans in place and expects there will be little effect on the services it provides.