Postie Irene an unsung hero

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A FIRST class Black Isle postie who cheerfully delivers the mail come rain or shine has more reason than ever to smile this week.

Irene Patience has been selected from amongst literally thousands of her colleagues in recognition of her commitment to duty after being nominated by a kind-hearted pensioner on her mail run.

Irene, who is based at Royal Mail's Fortrose delivery office, will now receive a half share of the £1,000 won by the man who nominated her, Rosemarkie pensioner, David Hart.

Thoughtful David decided to donate half his winnings to Irene after his name was first drawn out of the postbag — full of nominations for unsung heroes suggested by grateful members of the public.

Customers were invited to nominate Royal Mail people who they thought were the unsung heroes of the local community.

The 1st Class People Awards are aimed at recognising the acts of bravery, generosity and selflessness Royal Mail's postmen and postwomen display every day in Scotland.

Mr Hart had his name entered into a prize draw after nominating Irene. His name was drawn from the thousands of nominations received nationally.

Mr Hart said in his nomination that she works in all weathers and never misses a day. He praised Irene for her cheery smile and bubbly personality.

He added, "An army of Royal Mail posties are up, sorting and delivering my mail in the early morning whilst I am still in bed. Irene Patience is one of them. Come rain or shine, she and many others like her, provide a service which is second-to-none. They deserve our gratitude and our recognition for the dedicated work that they do."

Mr Hart thinks so highly of Irene that he insisted on donating half of his prize to her, meaning they each get £500 to spend as they please.

They were presented with their winnings by Royal Mail Manager, Nicola Lyall from Inverness Mail Centre.

Nicola said, "Irene is a valued member of staff. I'm absolutely delighted that she is being recognised for the fantastic and worthwhile work she does for the community. She really deserves it."