Woodford Green DO to close after more than 100 years

[TrueBlueTerrier]

Woodford Green Delivery Centre to close after more than 100 years

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An exhibition opens today to mark the closing of a post office delivery centre after more than 100 years.

The 91 members of staff at the office in Johnston Road in Woodford Green are moving to a centre in Debden centre, with the closure earmarked for September 29.

To mark the closure, postwoman Lisa Kane, who has worked at the centre for 25 years, has drawn portraits of all of the staff for an exhibition in the entrance.

The portraits include space for the workers to write farewell messages and postman Greg Nay, 38, has also written a poem for the display.

Mrs Kane, 48, said: “The exhibition is marking an end of an era.

“Each one took half an hour so I have been working hard to get them ready and everyone loves them.

“I thought it was fitting to put up this display as a celebration of our time here.

“The fact they are in blue crayon is symbolic because that is what we used to cross out addresses.

“We are all sad to go and it is emotional. The office is run-down but I believe that adds to the character and charm of the place.

"There was even a resident ghost and night staff have seen a ghostly apparition of a old postman a few times."

The post office features a plaque dedicated to ten workers who died while fighting in the Great War.

The 100-year lease is running out this month and Royal Mail said the building is being closed as it is not up to standard.

Mr Nay, who has worked at the centre for 12 years, said: “The small office meant a real community spirit developed here.

“Unfortunately the move has to happen and the facilities will be nicer as it is true the building here is really old and dilapidated."

The exhibition can be seen from 7am to 2.30pm, Monday to Saturday.