Royal Mail customers can now drop off parcels in convenience stores across the UK using the Collect+ network, the postal service has announced.

More than 700 locations are now operational in shops including Londis and independent newsagents.

There are plans to offer the service at a further 5,000 stores by summer.

At the convenience stores, Royal Mail customers can drop off packages that are up to large parcel sizes.

An expansion of the service will mean customers can collect online purchases.

Nick Landon, chief commercial officer at Royal Mail, said: “By giving our customers access to the Collect+ network, we are significantly increasing the number of locations where they can drop off parcels and giving them more options to do so during weekends and evenings.

“This helps us meet demand from the growing number of customers who pay for parcel postage online and is one of the ways we’re continuing to make sending and receiving parcels as convenient as possible by giving customers greater choice.”

The news comes after the postal service announced the launch of a new set of stamps.

Recommended reading:

Its latest release marks the 20th anniversary of the children’s TV show Peppa Pig with Peppa and friends featuring on the stamps.

There are 12 stamps altogether with Peppa and George, Suzy Sheep, Danny Dog, Daddy Pig, Mummy Pig, Grandpa and Granny Pig all featuring in the main set of eight stamps.

There is also a miniature sheet showing the characters having fun at a party.