Philipa and Helena Christmas are the postal workers who have been dubbed the "festive sisters".

With their seasonal surname it seems appropriate that both women are part of the Royal Mail team which delivers Christmas mail to thousands of homes in York.

Philipa, 21, and Helena 19, are used to the constant jibes they receive at this time of year, but say it's just "a bit of fun" and quite like having a festive title.

Philipa, who has been working for the Royal Mail for two-and-a-half years, and delivers in Copmanthorpe, said: "I didn't realise my sister was applying for the job, but now everyone knows us as the "festive sisters".

"I get a few funny calls at this time of year, saying "can I speak to Father" but I love my job and enjoy delivering at this time of year. The sisters join 1,700 employees, delivering 20 million cards and letters to 190,000 York homes over the next four weeks.

A Royal Mail spokesman said: "To help our sisters and all our staff, we would urge everyone to post their Christmas greetings early."

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