Hereford postman retires after 35 years with Royal Mail

Malcolm Hince has decided to hang up his mailbag, with plans to spend his well-deserved retirement with his family and enjoying hobbies like photography and crafts.

Mr Hince started his career as a postman in Hereford in 1989 delivering to houses in the city with a six-year stint in the village of Madley.

It was his 66th birthday on the day he retired.

"I spent my career delivering in the city. I always tried to get a regular round as I loved getting to know people and being part of the community," he said.

"As for retirement, I have plenty of jobs to do for the family but I love photography and several types of craftwork including working with resin and making jewellery, candles, wooden and cardboard gifts, and more."

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He recalled one of the highlights of his 35 years of service, which was when he delivered a 100th birthday telegram from the late Queen Elizabeth II. 

Mrs Sutton received a 100th birthday telegram (Image: Malcolm Hince)

Mr Hince was a much-loved postman in the community, and would often get into the holiday spirit at times of year like Christmas when he would dress up and decorate his mail trolley with tinsel.

Malcolm Hince would dress up at Christmas (Image: Malcolm Hince)

On his last day as a postman, he went into work in fancy dress as Jack Sparrow from the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. 

Malcolm Hince dressed as Jack Sparrow (Image: Malcolm Hince)

"I went in fancy dress to give everyone a laugh. I would just like to thank my colleagues who are like an extended family for giving me a magnificent send-off, and to all my customers who have been the best," he said.

Since announcing his departure, he has been inundated with praise and goodwill messages from people he delivered to, which he described as "humbling".

Writing to the postie on social media, Paulette Wigmore said "Enjoy your retirement" while Craig Smith said: "You have been a star, a very nice bloke. I've enjoyed our chats! Look after yourself, Malc."