bosses announced yesterday.

Postmaster General Clevelyn Crichlow said a "substantial amount'' of mail was awaiting transportation from Atlanta.

He added: "We have no explanation as to why this mail is late.'' But the Island can expect a delivery of Christmas mail today. Letters and parcels at New York's John F. Kennedy airport which should have been delivered by American Airlines has been transferred to Boston airport and will be carried on a Delta flight due to arrive at lunchtime.

Mr. Crichlow added: "The volumes are such that we are to expect large amounts of mail over the next three days.''