‘John, our hero’

Seaford postman of 30 years John Hamlet was left speechless when customers showered him with gifts and praise.

When he set off last Tuesday morning, John had no idea his customers in Lexden Drive in Seaford had planned a surprise thank you.

‘He was like a rabbit in the headlights,’ Roz Powney, who lives in the street, told The Argus. ‘He didn’t know what to say when he saw us all clapping. He was overwhelmed, but you could tell he was chuffed to bits.’

Grateful customers handed him a hamper jampacked with treats. One neighbour even painted a picture of a postbox and a little girl drew a poster bearing the words ‘John our hero.’

Even before the crisis, John was known for his good spirits. ‘He’s so cheery and jolly, and he’s really well liked,’ said Mrs Powney. ‘He’s putting himself at risk to bring us important post. My husband Andy and I are both disabled, and he often checks to see if we’re doing OK.

‘We aren’t able to work, and we rely on money sent to us in the post – I don’t know where we’d be without John. He’s doing such an essential job.’

When Mrs Powney spotted John later that day he was still beaming. ‘He looked like he’d won the lottery,’ she said. ‘He’s so appreciative. He goes over and above what he needs to do, and we all hope this will bring a smile to his face during this difficult time.’

‘It was a lovely surprise and a bit of a shock,’ said John. ‘It made me really happy to be their postman. Life in lockdown is strange with everyone not being able to go out to meet family and friends. And work is a bit like Christmas every day!’

Seaford delivery office manager, Tim Hill, said: ‘John is one of the more senior guys at the delivery office and is liked and respected by all his peers. His happy go-lucky demeanour and caring attitude along with his knowledge and experience in the business, make him a popular and key member of the team.

‘It isn’t at all surprising that his customers got together like this to show their appreciation.’