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Eric Barton, who delivered letters across Grinsdale, Kirkandrews on Eden, Beaumont, and Moorhouse for the last eight years of his 40-year career, retired in January.
A special farewell event was held at Beaumont Parish Hall on Sunday, March 2, with over 70 people in attendance.
Organiser Harold Bowron felt that the community had not been given enough notice to thank Mr Barton properly: “I asked the community, by writing to every house he delivered to, if they would like to come to the parish hall for a party.”
Mr Barton and his wife Heather agreed to attend, and residents gathered to celebrate his years of service.
A specially made cake, shaped like an envelope and inscribed with ‘First Class Male’, was provided by resident Judy Lees.
Mary Thomas contributed homemade scones, while Portia Williamson provided traybakes.
Mr Barton, who began his career at the Warwick Road Post Office in 1981, was touched by the event.
He originally worked in the Denton Holme area, later moving to heavy goods vehicle (HGV) trunk driving for Royal Mail, covering routes to Warrington, Leeds, Bolton, and Stranraer.
Mr Bowron said: “He wasn’t just a postman, he was someone who kept you informed about who was ill and helped the whole community.
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“The hall committee provided the venue without charge, and many people helped to make it a special afternoon.”
Mr Barton and his wife were deeply moved by the turnout and the effort made by the local community.
“They thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon and were grateful to everyone who came along,” said Mr Bowron.
