Thank you for running our post office

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AFTER almost 15 years of loyal service to the community, residents in Flyford Flavell, near Pershore, were not about to let their postmaster and mistress Mike and Leena Sheppard retire quietly.

The couple, who came to the village 14 years ago, closed the door on their shop and post office on Thursday.

And on Saturday almost 100 of their friends and customers descended on their doorstep for a surprise party in their honour.

The overwhelmed couple, who plan to remain in the village, were presented with a bouquet of flowers and almost £400 in garden and John Lewis vouchers purchased after a whip-around in the village.

“We were absolutely speechless. It was very touching to see so many people and we never for one minute expected anything like it,” said Mrs Sheppard.

The couple, who are both in their 70s, had been trying to sell the business as a going concern, but when there had been no takers after five years on the market, they decided they had to call it a day.

Although Post Office Local, which is responsible for the branch, is looking for a replacement service, with St Peter’s Church in the village identified as a possible venue, for now residents have been left with a four-mile drive to use postal facilities in neighbouring villages.

“It is very sad that we could not find a buyer. We have had a very nice life at the post office and although we won’t miss all the hard work and lugging goods around, we will miss the camaraderie,” said Mrs Sheppard.

Their farewell party was attended by a host of familiar faces including rector Clive Fairclough and Mid-Worcestershire MP Peter Luff.

Pam Hewitson, who helped to organise the party, said: “It was no surprise that so many people wanted to show their thanks to Mike and Leena.

“The turnout was an indication of what a lovely couple they are and just how highly valued they have been by the village. They have always done everything they can to help out this community.”