Consignia launched an inquiry

Fleming had pleaded guilty at an earlier appearance to three charges involving the non-delivery of postal packets in September and October, 2001.

The accused, of Wardieburn Road, Edinburgh, was dismissed by Consignia following an internal investigation.

The inquiry began when a member of the public found a bag containing 182 items of mail on an old railway line.

When interviewed by Consignia investigators, Fleming admitted dumping the bag.

A search of his home revealed a further 34 packets under his bed and he also admitted he had opened another eight packets, which he had not delivered.

Fleming told the officials he had been getting "stick" from his colleagues for bringing mail back to the depot.

Postmen were always told that if they interfered with the mail in any way they could go to prison and the sooner that is realised, the better

Sheriff Andrew Bell

They had accused him of "bumping" them - bringing them back to the office for others to deliver - so he had just dumped them.

Asked about the letters under his bed, Fleming said: "I think it was second delivery and they were 'stair' addresses. I was very busy that day and I just couldn't be bothered".

Defence agent, Roy Harley, conceded that the tale of taunts of other employees was a woeful excuse, but said Fleming, a first offender, was genuinely remorseful and embarrassed.

Sheriff Bell said: "At one time, a postman was a responsible and steady job, but the Post Office now seems to employ people without proper training or anything.

"These could have been matters of vital importance: people waiting for hospital appointments, vital letters from friends or relatives."

Sentencing Fleming to three months' detention, Sheriff Bell said: "In my view, it is my duty to impose a custodial sentence.

"Postmen were always told that if they interfered with the mail in any way they could go to prison and the sooner that is realised, the better."