Blood ties

Postman Stuart Hooper has worked in Leytonstone Delivery Office for 10 years, alongside his twin brother Andrew and dad Eric.

Stuart works as a reserve postman, covering shifts for colleagues – including his brother – all over the area.

‘I think the best thing about being a postman is the freedom to work at your own pace,’ said Stuart. ‘I can easily walk 20km a day.’

Stuart’s walks have taken him all over Leytonstone, and as such, he’s been in the right place at the right time on a few occasions to help vulnerable customers.

‘On one particular day, I spotted a garage door open, and there were all sorts of valuables inside,’ said Stuart. ‘The neighbour said the family had a childminder a few streets over.’

Stuart knocked on every door until he found the childminder, who then called the house owners to come home.

‘The same day, I came across a lady struggling to start her car,’ added Stuart. ‘Her husband had just passed away and she was late for an appointment.’

Stuart recruited help from a local mechanic, before driving the woman to her appointment.

Back at the delivery office, Stuart and his family call each other by their first names while at work. ‘My dad wouldn’t answer if I yelled “Dad” across the floor!’ he said. ‘But we all enjoy working together.’