Hundreds of new jobs are to be created, with new posties going door to door in the borough.

TNT Post, the UK’s second largest private postal operator, is set to double the size of its workforce, hiring more than 400 new staff in Harrow, Willesden and Colindale.

The company is planning to open four new delivery units in Harrow and North West London and plans to create more positions for young people and the long term unemployed.

Chief executive of TNT Post Nick Wells said: “We are passionate about creating jobs. These jobs have been filled by people who may have found it difficult to get back into, or even join, the work force.

“These jobs are not only good news for North West London and Harrow but are also good news for the UK economy.

“We are committed to helping develop people’s careers and our focus on training and development will not only benefit TNT Post employees, but also the wider business community as our Posties progress their career with us or look for new opportunities within other businesses.”

In response to the company’s announcement, Royal Mail said its research shows people want to receive post six days a week instead of every other day, which TNT runs in other parts of London.

Royal Mail operations director Stephen Cameron “Customers are expressing a clear preference for ‘six-day-a-week’ delivery in North West London, where TNT is planning to expand its service.

“Royal Mail’s service is highly valued in the communities we serve. In turn, Royal Mail provides quality employment in our biggest cities.

“We employ over 18,000 people in London and we make a positive economic contribution in areas where quality employment opportunities are scarce.

“Royal Mail welcomes competition, but it needs to be on a level playing field. Our competitors can cherry pick areas in which to deliver mail and determine the frequency of those deliveries.”