It’s my round

As Alton postie Roz Packett marks 50 years with Royal Mail, she shares tales of a rewarding role with memorable moments.

I became a postie because I fancied something different . I’ve lived in Alton all my life and was working in a shop – but I wanted a new challenge. Royal Mail was advertising, so I filled in the form and sent it off. I joined the team on 14 May 1973 and haven’t looked back.

Everyone likes to see the postie. Overall, I’ve really enjoyed it, even after a tough day. The postie is everyone’s favourite person to see.

The people I see each day on my round have become friends. I’ve been delivering to the same people for years. We used to change rounds regularly, but for a long while now I’ve been on the same duty, which means I’ve got to know the people on my round really well.

My Royal Mail role meant I had a real community wedding. After my first husband died, I met my current partner. We got married 18 years ago in the parish church in Froyle, which is part of my delivery round. Working and living in the village means I’m part of the community, and we had a proper community wedding.

The postie has a key role to play in a village like mine. My job means I can look out for people, especially having worked so long in the same area. If I haven’t seen someone for a few days, I ask about them. People who are on their own really look forward to seeing me and having a bit of a natter. The postie might be the only person they speak to in person that day.