HEREFORD postman Vin Booth, having stamped his mark at the Royal Mail over 48 years of loyal service, is taking well-earned retirement at the age of 65.

Vin will be leaving behind some valued colleagues at the Royal Mail - not least three members of his family!

The Booths have created something of a dynasty in the postal service, on the pay roll for a total of 93 years.

Vin's wife, Philomena, started sorting mail part-time in 1987 and his two sons have also taken up the mantle; Gary and David became postmen in 1986 and 1991 respectively.

Vin's family will carry on within the business as he sits back and reflects on a career that saw him start as a messenger boy in 1955 and taken him to London, the cockpit of HGVs and the Bromyard area where he worked on collections for 12 years. He will miss the job but is determined to enjoy the time he now has to relax .

"I've always been too busy to have hobbies so I will have to find one in my retirement," he said. Perhaps stamp-collecting would be an appropriate choice, if a little close to home!

Delivery office manager Paul Davies said: " I have appreciated all Vincent's efforts over the last 48 years.

"He has been a loyal and dedicated employee and an excellent representative of Royal Mail."

Indeed Vin's popularity meant that he latterly received a few deliveries of his own. "I have made a lot of friends here, both staff and customers, and when I left my collection round people were giving me gifts. I left with tears in my eyes and a lump in my throat. I will miss the job but will make sure I stay in touch with everyone."