Postman delivered mail in fancy dress during lockdown

A Clevedon postie who dressed up as different characters on his rounds to bring a smile to people during lockdown has produced a calendar – of him in his colourful outfits.

Terry Barnes, 54, who has been a postman for 33 years, started dressing up as different characters on his rounds in the seaside resort to cheer up customers during the first Government lockdown in the spring.

He was seen walking the streets of Clevedon with his mailbag dressed as a zebra, Snow White, a Scotsman, clown and even a bright red post box.

Dad of two Terry, who delivers to around 570 homes a day in the town, had pictures of him in his different costumes taken each day before he headed out on deliveries.

He said: “I noticed that people were feeling down because of the situation and being cooped up in their homes during lockdown.

“It was my way of helping to put a smile on peoples’ faces.”

Now Terry has chosen 12 of his favourite pictures of him in costume to produce a charity calendar for 2021.

The calendars cost £5 and all money raised will go to Action for Children – also Royal Mail’s charity of the year.

“The idea of doing a calendar was suggested by some of my customers on my rounds,” said Terry.

“And I thought why not?

“It’s a great idea and will raise money for a great cause.”

Terry first came up with the idea of dressing up at work after tidying his bedroom and finding a zebra onesie.

“I had a couple of costumes at home and people who have heard what I am doing have loaned me some.

“It added bit of fun to the round and I am pleased it made people smile.”

Initially 200 copies of the calendar were printed.

But Terry has had to already double the print run due to their popularity.

“They are going down a storm,” he said.

“It’s a bit of fun that people will have their local postman on the walls for a year.

“And it will raise money for a great cause.”

Although Terry is back wearing his Royal Mail uniform for now, he has plans for more festive attire in the run up to Christmas.

“I’ve already ordered my costumes ready,” he laughed.

“So it’s likely that people will be seeing a cheeky elf delivering their post nearer Christmas.

“And Santa himself may also be making an appearance.”

To order your calendar message Terry on his Facebook page or email him at terryjbarnes65@gmail.com.