‘Quite the legend’

Penrith postman Simon Richardson has become ‘quite the legend’ in his community by bringing a smile to everyone’s face, while at the same time raising money for Age UK.

After seeing the mood of customers on his rounds change during lockdown, Simon came up with a cunning plan to make each day brighter for everyone he sees.

Cheery town favourite Simon has been making those living on his Carleton round laugh by dressing up in a number of fancy-dress costumes, including a bright red postbox outfit.

Blown away by the initial response from both young and old customers, which he described as ‘unbelievable,’ Simon went one step further and started appearing on the streets with an emu for company, in tiger face-paint and matching onesie, and even as Postman Pat’s Jess the cat.

His exploits swiftly attracted attention from the media. As well as featuring on ITV News and BBC Radio Cumbria, Simon even appeared on Channel Four show, Britain’s Unsung Heroes. Simon is now putting his increasing public profile to even more positive use by collecting cash in aid of Age UK. 

Initially mulling over a £200 target, he set himself a £1,000 goal which he has since exceeded. ‘I chose Age UK just because I see a lot of older customers on my round,’ he told The Herald. ‘A lot of them have perhaps lost partners or loved ones, and they maybe don’t see anyone else except for the postman or woman.

‘I hope people can spare some change for a wonderful charity. The response has been brilliant. There are so many people who have anonymously donated. I’ve tried to thank everyone who has given money.’

Click here if you would like to help Simon’s fundraising efforts for Age UK.