TNT Post has extended its end-to-end delivery service in south-west London as it seeks to provide customers with an alternative to Royal Mail.

It has taken on an additional 500 staff in the London Borough's of Wandsworth, Hammersmith and Fulham, Merton and Lambeth, where it has introduced ‘final mile’ deliveries following a successful trial in west London last year.

Post and packets will be delivered directly to businesses and households using its track and trace technology, where every item is scanned before delivery.

Chief executive Nick Wells said: “With a 98.5% first attempt delivery rate and track and trace technology, TNT Post is committed to delivering an innovative and efficient service to the residents and business community in south-west London.”

Parent company Post NL said last month that it was seeking investors to fund the introduction of the offer nationwide.