AN internal investigation has been launched amid an allegation that a postwoman stole from Royal Mail customers.

The postwoman, whose name has not not been released, is alleged to have stolen money from envelopes at the delivery office in Infant Street, Accrington.

She has been suspended while the investigation is carried out.

The Lancashire Telegraph understands police were informed about the allegation on August 17 but the woman is not facing a criminal investigation at this stage.

A Royal Mail spokesman said: “Royal Mail is investigating a postwoman from Accrington delivery office on the suspicion of theft from the post.

“These investigations are ongoing and we won’t comment further until they are concluded. The postwoman is currently suspended from duty.

“ Royal Mail has a zero tolerance approach to any dishonesty and that stance is shared by the overwhelming majority of postmen and women, who are honest and hard-working and who do all they can to protect the mail and deliver it safely.

“Royal Mail will always seek to prosecute the tiny minority of people who abuse their position of trust.”

A police spokesman added: “We have been made aware of an allegation.”