Ray carried out the deliveries for the first two years before Irene took over and has continued on through the last 28 years in all sorts of weather.

Irene took over the run from Gwenda Rue, who had been the postie for a short time.

The post Master at the time was Terry Francis with Kay Shine the Assistant Postal Officer.

Covering 21.8 ks a day, Irene has clocked up 102.000 ks over those 28 years through many cold winters, hot summers and a few floods.

Irene said the best part of the job has been all the lovely people she has met over the years and, because she is such a keen gardener, those who had given her cuttings and flowers from their gardens.

Another thing which she has been able to observe over this period of time was watching all the little ones, who came out to collect the mail, grow up into adults.

The worst part of the job has been the many angry dogs, and yes, she has been bitten a few times.

Taking a few tumbles from the bike has also been part of the hazards that go with the job. During the 30 years Irene has only had three bikes.

Back ups for Irene over the years have been Elaine Townsend, Danny Townsend, Bonnie O'Connor, Leanne Sayers and presently Daryl Jones and Julie Dukes.

Irene said she has loves the job which is why she has stayed there all these years and she summed it up by saying "It has been good, it really has".

by Judy Smith.