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A POSTIE with a penchant for picture-taking is celebrating after one of his photographs became an internet smash viewed by more than 10 million people.
Epping postman Martyn Band took a snap of Tower Bridge - complete with giant Olympic rings - on his way to meet fellow amateur photographers at a pub in early August.
"I was meeting up before going on this photography evening walk to take pictures of the bridge all lit up," he said.
"On the way I thought, well, I'm here, the rings are up, I'll take the picture."
Mr Band, of Pennymead, Harlow, uploaded the picture to his online album, hoping to attract a few comments from photography and sports fans.
To the 60-year-old's astonishment, the image proved an instant hit with web users - and has now notched up more than 10 million views.
"For some unknown reason it's gone beserk. It's just a complete shock," said Mr Band.
"On Saturday night it got to 9.9 million and I stayed up to watch and it went up to 10 million. In another five weeks it could get to 20 million.
"Obviously it's partly because of the Olympics being on, but I would like to think it's because it's beautiful."
The dad-of-one, who has worked for Royal Mail for 20 years and delivers post in and around Theydon Grove and Stonards Hill, has also received a string of comments praising the photograph.
"Sometimes when I get back to work, I have a quick look on the computer to see if there are any more views," he said.
"My family and friends keep saying 'you should make some money out of it'."
Despite his overnight online success, the well-known postie has no plans to give up his career and take up photography full time.
"I like finishing early, although I won't tell you when I have to get up. I chat to anyone I see," he said.
"Photography's a hobby. At one point I did want to get into it, but no opportunities appeared."
To view Mr Band's photograph and add your comments, visit goo.gl/gwsrB .