Union leaders warned last night that Royal Mail wants to axe another 1,200 jobs.

Unite, claim the letting go of middle managers is to help with higher management salaries - including departing chief executive Adam Crozier.

It is also thought to be help Royal Mail hit the targets that will mean big bonuses for top staff.

Paul Reuter, the Unite national officer, wrote to Mr Crozier this week demanding a meeting to discuss the cut.

Unions fear the move will close offices in Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester and Liverpool.

Brian Scott, the assistant national secretary for Unite, fears the latest job losses could cost Royal Mail, vital new contracts.

A Royal Mail spokesman denied there was a hidden agenda or any set target for job losses.