Beating heart

Being the eyes and ears of a community is not a responsibility to be taken lightly, but it is one that many of our people assume with aplomb. Take Wayne Casserly, for example. He has worked on his round in Mortlake in South West London for 12 years, and like many postmen and women, he has become a familiar, friendly face in the neighbourhood.

Wayne knows his customers now, and recognises those who are more vulnerable. He particularly listens out for the elderly people in the area.

Lucky then for Sally, who had fallen inside her house between Christmas and New Year. Wayne heard her calling for help, and was able to get her back on her feet and make sure she was comfortable. 

Wayne said: ‘I know Sally well. She is a fascinating woman. She used to be a professional dancer and has travelled the world. I keep an eye out for her and have helped her a few times, made her a cup of tea and stuff like that.

‘As I passed her house that morning, I heard her shouting out. I went to the door and she called the number to let me in. She had fallen and had been stuck on the floor for several hours. I picked her up and took her through to her armchair and made sure she was comfortable. We contacted her carer to come and see to her and I went on and finished my run.

‘I went back at the end of my run to make sure she was okay.’

Neighbour Rebecca West said: ‘Wayne deserves a gold star for his total and utter kindness to people. He always smiles and always looks pleased to see you – regardless of what might be going on in his life. He is a total asset to your company.’

In his spare time, Wayne is a keen musician. He’s been a drummer for more than thirty years, playing in bands and as a session musician. Rebecca said: ‘I’d buy him a new set of drums if I could afford them!’