Petition to keep Hemingford Grey Royal Mail postman

Mick Rodger has worked the round in Hemingford Grey since 2016 but is due to be moved next week.

Resident Gareth Baldwin said he is “deeply affected” by the decision and has appealed to Royal Mail to reverse the decision. 

He launched a petition on January 29, which has received more than 170 signatures, calling on the company to let Mr Rodger continue as the village’s postman. 

He told The Hunts Post Mr Rodger is “loved by people in the village”, adding that he is “not just a familiar face”, but a “vital” part of the community. 

Mr Baldwin started a petition on January 29 in a bid to reverse the decision. (Image: Gareth Baldiwn) Mr Baldwin said: “I’m deeply saddened by the sudden change in our village’s postman by Royal Mail. 

“Mick’s dedication to caring for the members of the community who might only see him in their day is incredible.

“He will always give a wave or have a friendly word, that’s not something you just turn on, it’s clear he cares.

“He has often come to the rescue of many an elderly resident, aiding anyone who needs it and providing support beyond his job requirement.

Mr Baldwin added: “His position extends beyond the physical delivery of mail; it encompasses social cohesion, community, and care.”

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MP for Huntingdon Ben Obese-Jecty confirmed he had written to Royal Mail to “query” it’s decision to move Mr Rodger but has “yet to receive a response”. 

He said: “After the best part of a decade as their postman in Hemingford Grey, residents hugely value the role Mick plays within the community, offering a friendly and familiar face to many, on some days the only conversation elderly residents may have. 

“There have been occasions when Mick has been the first responder to a resident who has fallen or is in distress. He is so much more than just a postman. 

“Having visited the Huntingdon sorting office at Christmas, I’ve seen how hard our postal workers work to ensure the post is delivered.”

Mr Obese-Jecty said he had written to Royal Mail to query its decision to move Mr Rodger. (Image: UK Parliament)A spokesperson for Royal Mail said: “We thank residents for the petition and the passion they have for our posties.

“We are very proud of the many dedicated individuals we have within Royal Mail who are firmly committed to serving the communities they operate in.

“At times, posties may be moved onto new routes as part of restructuring, however we would reassure residents that any new postie will be well-trained to serve their area and deliver the same high level of service.”

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