People posting Christmas cards and letters are in for a festive surprise thanks to the Royal Mail.

The postal service has created special festive postboxes that sing to customers. 

Appearing in London, the Royal Mail will also be popping up across Swansea, Glasgow and Belfast. 

The red and gold coloured postboxes, decorated with snowmen, snowflakes and gold stars, respond to post with festive tunes such as Jingle Bells, We Wish You A Merry Christmas and Deck The Halls.

Royal Mail create singing postboxes in London

Discussing the festive treat, the Lord Mayor of Westminster councillor Patricia McAllister said: “I think it’s a fantastic idea and thrilled to be involved this year.

“There is nothing better than sending Christmas cards to friends and family to spread some festive cheer.

“Hopefully, this will encourage people to keep up the Christmas tradition.

Times Series: Will you be using the Christmas postbox?Will you be using the Christmas postbox? (Image: PA)

“The singing postbox should give our residents and visitors to Oxford Street an unexpected surprise when they send their letters ahead of Christmas Day.”

Whilst Nick Landon, chief commercial officer at Royal Mail, said: “This is Royal Mail’s busiest time of the year.

“December sees about twice as many letters, cards and parcels as other months.

“At Royal Mail, we’re geared up to help with festive preparations, whether that’s delivering the nation’s love and best wishes through Christmas cards, or the presents that tens of millions of people will be shopping online for right now.

“This year we’re adding some extra festive joy and cheer for people sending their letters and Christmas cards to loved ones through our amazing singing postboxes.”

Away from the festive postboxes, the Royal Mail is also marking Christmas with a series of five new stamps, inspired by traditional carols. 

The Royal Mail is also encouraging customers to order their online gifts and shopping well in advance and to post their festive greetings early.

Its latest recommended posting dates for mail to arrive in time for Christmas are December 18 for second class, December 20 for first class and December 22 for special delivery guaranteed.

You can find London's special Christmas singing postbox in London’s Oxford Street.