OFFICIALS claim a post-box in Dorchester is due back in action this week after it was sealed up for tests and cleaning.

Workers are due to clean and unseal the collection box in Baynard's Road after white powder - found in tests to be flour - was discovered inside.

The move came as Consignia, which is responsible for post office deliveries, deals with anthrax scares and false alarms across Dorset and the UK.

Consignia spokesman Adrian Booth said: "There was no risk, but there was a bit of a mess.

"The substance was found to be flour and cleaners are coming in before it is ready for use again this week."

He added: "If it was a prank, it wasn't a very funny one."

Homeowners complained to ward councillors Trevor Jones and John Antell about the box being sealed up.

Coun Trevor Jones said: "I have been approached by a number of residents.

"Preferably, the Post Office should bring the box back into use or at the very least put a notice on explaining why it is out of action."

Coun John Antell added: "The person who did this should be sweating like mad.

"If he or she is caught they will get severe punishment."

The police and West Dorset District Council's environmental health section have been told of the situation.

Peggy Smith, 63, of Baynard's Road, said: "I was concerned because people should be kept informed of what is going on.

"It is a principle at stake. I'm not bothered about the post box being open or closed.

"People weren't told why the box was sealed and they should have been even if it did result in a scare."