The cost of posting heavier mail and standard parcels is to increase in the new year.

First and second-class post above 350g in weight will rise by one per cent, adding 1p to an item which costs £1.30 now.

Special delivery prices will increase by 4p to £3.69 and the cost of posting a standard parcel weighing up to 1kg will increase by 3p to £3.18.

The price of an airmail letter to Europe will change from 37p to 38p when the increases some into effect next March.

Royal Mail pointed out the increases will apply to services which are open to competition from rival firms.