HOLIDAYMAKERS can now avoid the last minute rush to buy foreign currencyand traveller's cheques by ordering them from their local post office, which will then deliver them within five days by registered mail.

An Post's new foreign exchange facilities include buying and selling foreign currency and cheques directly from 40 post offices, with the pre- order facility at 260 others plus a unique personal cheque cashing service for visitors from Britain.year, says An Post, which plans to make the post office the biggest bureau de change network in the country. The service is supplied through First Rate Bureau de Change, part of the Bank of Ireland Group.

Anyone applying for a pass port before going on holidays this summer can also arrange it through An Post's Passport Express - applications are available at any post office - from anywhere in Ireland Direct pre-paid calling cards can also be purchased for Pounds 10.