Sunday opening announced for Royal Mail's delivery office in Derry

Royal Mail customers in Derry will be able to pick up their parcels on a Sunday for the first time.

The delivery office at Great James Street will open this Sunday as part of a new pilot project.

It is designed to make it easier for online shoppers not at home during the day to get their parcels.

The move has been welcomed by the Consumer Council.

"We hope this pilot will make life easier for postal consumers who can sometimes find it difficult to collect their undelivered mail from delivery offices because the opening hours are unsuitable," the council's Kellin McCloskey said.

"Almost eight in 10 consumers prefer to collect items from a delivery or sorting office.

"Failed delivery attempts are not only a major source of frustration and inconvenience to consumers but can also bear a significant cost for carriers and retailers."