DOGS attacked seven postmen and women while they were on their rounds in East Lancashire in one year, new figures reveal.

The Royal Mail released the numbers for the area including Accrington, Barnoldswick, Blackburn, Burnley, Clitheroe, Colne, Darwen, Nelson and Rossendale — and urged residents to keep pets under control.

As part of the service’s Dog Awareness Week, Royal Mail said almost 150 postmen and women were attacked across the north west between April 2012 and April 2013.

Other areas have seen even higher rates with 23 in Manchester, 23 in Stockport and 20 in Oldham. Blackburn and Burnley postal areas were third from bottom of the 12 areas, with six in Crewe and five in Wigan.

Royal Mail is working alongside the Communication Workers’ Union, Dogs Trust, Blue Cross, Wood Green, and the Association of Dog Wardens.

Attacks have resulted in the loss of 4,100 working days due to injuries and attacks, usually peak during the school holidays.

Darren Thain, director of safety for Royal Mail in the North West said: “Last year the number of dog attacks fell. However even one dog attack on our people is one too many.

“Clearly, most dogs are not dangerous. However, even the most placid animal can feel its territory is being threatened.”

Lynn Barber, head of training and behaviour at the Dogs Trust said: “Always remain calm with your dog and use positive methods to get him used to the postman arriving. All of our tips for helping your dog get over this fear, and avoid it developing in the first place, are at www.royalmailgroup.com/dogs”