Several Royal Mail post boxes across Swindon are set to turn digital after being taped off - annoying and baffling Adver readers.

The postal company confirmed earlier this year that it would be introducing 3,500 new 'automated' post boxes across the UK, changing the red pillar boxes that have stood in Britain for nearly two centuries.

Now, the first of the new post boxes are arriving in Swindon.

Concerns were originally raised by residents when several post boxes across the town were found covered in black tape and "unusable" during Royal Mail's busiest time of the year.

The new "automated system" will include a barcode scanner for tracked items, solar panels with battery backup, proof of posting through the app, and a wider slot for small parcels.

News of the unusual upgrade sparked a heated debate in the comments.

Emily Gonzales said: “Nothing 'royal' about them anymore. Fully private company now. And useless! I've been left with no bank card thanks to them!”

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Jan Andersen-Page said: “What a totally stupid time of the year to tape off........

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