ROYAL Mail says deliveries across Colchester have been impacted by a series of vacancies after residents reported not receiving any letters for 10 days.
Members of the public said they had even received NHS letters about the date of an operation after the procedure had taken place.
Royal Mail told the Gazette "there are currently resourcing issues" and it was rotating rounds to serve the city.
Elaine Piper-Hunter said: "Been like this for months because parcels are being prioritised and that info comes from the post men and women.
"It’s obviously true because you get none for days then a load of mail."
Darren Dilliway said he had not had post for 10 days and was waiting for a hospital letter and important documents.
Steve Ault added: "Nothing new, I’ve had my surgery letters a week after I’ve had the surgery even though dated 10 days before it.
"Not the posties’ fault though, they are trying their best."
Diane South said: "We haven't had a delivery for over a week, items that should have been here by the beginning of the week still haven't arrived.
"For what is paid in postage now this poor service is not acceptable.
"I don't blame the delivery personnel but the blame certainly lies at the feet of the upper management."
Pauline Seaden said: "I don't get letters every week, when I do get them there's normally six to eight.
"Try not to use post anymore. Hospital and doctors appointment I now get emailed or text message."
Some of our readers did praise the work of postal workers despite the delays.
Paul Goodey said: "I haven't missed anything. My posties are legends. Always happy. Always go out of their way.
"If they are struggling at work they don't show it on their faces bless them."
Paul Southernwood added: "My regular postman, great bloke, tells me all the time that they're told to prioritise parcels. Royal Mail deny it but it's a fact."
John Roberts said: "Never had a problem, all our post seems to be on time."
A Royal Mail spokesperson said: “We know how important it is that customers receive their mail on time, particularly when it includes items such as medical appointments or other important correspondence.
"Recent UK-wide figures show 92 per cent of all letters arrive on time, but we recognise performance is not yet where it needs to be in all areas.
“In Colchester there are currently resourcing issues due to vacancies, so we are rotating walks. We are working on recruitment to restore normal, reliable service.”