Man of the hour

Our Delivery team play a truly valued role in their communities. But not everyone earns a British Empire Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list for the difference they make.

That’s what happened this year to Weston-super-Mare postman, Chris Vallimae. Community really is at the heart of everything he does.

Play the video above to see just how much of a trusted friend Chris is to so many of his grateful customers.

‘The Queen has awarded me the British Empire Medal,’ said Chris. ‘If I don’t meet her Majesty this time, I will at the garden party next year in June with my wife.’

When asked what kind of support he gives his customers, Chris said: ‘I have a lot of old-age pensioners who can’t get out of the house. Many of them don’t get to see anyone else very often, only their postman. So, sometimes, we’re like the highlight of their day.’

We asked some of Chris’ customers to tell us what they appreciate the most about him. They said: ‘One, he’s friendly. Two, he’s always on time – you can set your watch by him. And three, he’s really helpful – not only does he enjoy having a little chat, but his experiences are fantastic.

‘When you see him pushing that cart at the end of the day and it’s all uphill – he does a wonderful job.’

Another customer, said: ‘He’s a gentleman, believe you me. I’ve never seen a postman work as hard as him.’