LEIGH MP Andy Burnham is appealing to constituents whose letters were snatched in a daring daylight mail van robbery.

A parcel containing the MP's mail re-routed from the House of Commons was among parcels stolen in a Leigh town centre raid when a GPO van driver was held at knifepoint in Bond Street.

A spokesman for the MP said the van was parked and while one postman was delivering in Bradshawgate the driver was attacked and robbed.

The thief was seen running from the scene towards Leigh RL ground carrying three cash bags.

He is described as 5ft 7in tall, stocky and wearing a blue and orange coat and grey scarf.

Mr Burnham's mail is diverted daily from the House and is delivered by special delivery, usually in a large envelope.

He said: "On four occasions in the last 12 months mail has been stolen, and I don't want constituents who have written to me in London to think they are being ignored."

He called on anyone who feels they may have been affected to contact his Leigh office on 01942 682353.

A GPO spokesman said: "Fortunately no-one was hurt, but we don't want to say too much in case it gives people ideas. The matter is in the hands of the police."

Anyone who can help police with inquiries should contact Leigh CID on 0161 856 7253 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.