ROYAL Mail staff can now benefit from their own learning centre in Southend to pick up new skills and kick-start their career.

The new centre at the delivery office in Short Street is the result of a partnership between the Royal Mail and the Communications Workers Union (CWU). It was unveiled by Southend mayor Chris Dandridge and Bill Hayes, general secretary of the CWU.

The centre consists of a room with computers and teaching staff from Basildon and Thurrock College, which has ties with Trade Union Congress.