Delivery days are over after 40 years for Fernhurst postman

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http://www.midhurstandpetworth.co.uk/ne ... 4035701.jp

A familiar face is missing from daily rounds in Fernhurst these days, with the retirement of postman Ken Newman.
And after 40 years and two days, he says he will miss the people he regularly delivered to, and his colleagues at Haslemere sorting office.

Ken, who lives at Fernhurst, was born in the village and went to school there until his family moved to Hammer.

Leaving school at 15, he worked in Burgess's Stores at Liphook before moving to Partners' Stores in Haslemere.

When the shop was taken over by the International Stores, he joined Royal Mail. His days started at 5am.

He began his career as a telegram boy, covering, on his bicycle, from Blackdown to Farnham Lane and Marley Heights.

Soon he moved on to being a postman and over the years, his rounds have included Camelsdale, Highlands Estate at Hammer, Chase Lane and Blackdown, Henley and Grayswood.

With a dedicated Fernhurst round, Ken has got to know many residents.

He received his 40 years' long service certificate last year and as he left this month, the lads at the sorting office gave him vouchers which he has yet to spend.

He said: "I shall miss it, but the last two to three years there has been much more pressure."