50 years of service
At Wirral Collection Hub, the team are celebrating an impressive 50 years of service by Collections Hub Supervisor, Pete Rafferty.
Starting as a delivery postie on a wobbly motorbike at Birkenhead Delivery Office in 1974, Pete has gained experience in a variety of roles, which have led him to many locations in the North West Area - from Prenton to Copperas Hill - and now on the Wirral since 2013.
When asked what he’s enjoyed most about his roles, Pete said ‘the variety and the opportunities in my role are rarely the same from day to day’.
Pete credits his loyalty to Royal Mail to the community he has built within his team, which initially formed from being a likeminded small group with a love for motorbikes. Over the years, Pete’s team has turned into family supporting him through life’s trials and tribulations.
‘It’s like a family to me,’ he said. ‘People in Royal Mail really looked after me when my mother passed. I am proud to have had a job that is in the centre of the community.’
Over the years, Pete has been able to adapt his role around his lifestyle, enabling him to make time to follow his passions… with football being one such interest.
‘My work schedule, daily tasks and locations enable me to live my lifestyle and have time for my own passions,’ he explained. ‘One is attending games at my beloved Everton FC - not so sure that’s a positive though!’
Pete has many stories to tell from his half-a-century homage at Royal Mail such as the wholesome Hughes Lane snowball fight amongst neighbourhood adults and children one cold and wet Saturday morning.
When considering the advice he’d give newcomers, Pete encourages getting stuck in and to stick it out.
‘Stick at it,’ he said. ‘There are lots of opportunities available in Royal Mail if you want them.’
We asked Pete what he’d say to himself on his first day at Royal Mail, he said: ‘Smile you may just enjoy this.’
Congratulations to all colleagues who celebrate long service milestones this month! Each month, a ‘Feel Good Friday’ story will shine a spotlight on a colleague who reaches 50 years of service, and today that’s Pete. Here’s to you, Pete!
