West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has offered her backing to a campaign which aims to reduce the number of dog attacks on posties. The MP joined postal workers in Malvern's sorting office to hear about the Royal Mail campaign and to offer her support. Harriett met with local postman Ian Palmer who has been bitten by dogs in Malvern four times in his 18 year career and was attacked by a dog this week. The Royal Mail recorded 42 incidents in Harriett's constituency last year and 3,300 were reported across the UK. Local staff have attended courses in dog psychology to help to spot dogs which may pose a threat. New legislation means that owners can be prosecuted for dog attacks which take place on private property when the mail is being delivered. The campaign aims to encourage responsible dog ownership and to appeal to dog owners to keep animals under control when the postman calls. Harriett commented: “Part of my job involves knocking on doors so I completely sympathise with postal staff who have been attacked by dogs as their do their work. “A recent change in legislation means that dog owners are responsible for injury caused by their animals even if it happens on private property. “It is only fair that posties should be able to deliver the mail in safety so I urge all pet owners to act responsibly and help to reduce the number of incidents both locally and across the UK.” Photo: (l-r) Tony Waterhouse, Harriett Baldwin MP, Ian Palmer