A POSTBOX between Tintern and St Arvans is out of use because of birds nesting.

The bird nesting season is generally from March 1 until July 31, but the one’s in Monmouthshire were keen to start early and set up their nest in the last week of January.

Royal Mail spokeswoman Val Bodden said: “Birds nesting in Royal Mail postboxes usually occur in specific rural areas across the UK, typically at certain times of the year. In such circumstances, we place a sign on the box, requesting that customers do not use that box, so that the nesting birds are not disturbed.

“This particular box is not well used, but as soon as the birds have finished nesting, the sign will be removed and the posting service restored.”

The picture was submitted by resident Susan Powell.