Talks between Royal Mail and the Communication Workers Union have been extended.

The deadline of Friday January 22nd was postponed so negotiations could continue.

Roger Poole, who is independently chairing the negotiations, made the announcement on Friday.

It was agreed at the end of 2009 to halt further strike action planned until this date, to avoid further disruption over Christmas.

There are fears if both sides are unable to reach an agreement over Royal Mail modernization plans, the UK could be crippled by more postal strikes.