Postman retires after 36 years on the same round

Villagers say retiring postman Myles Boothman was like "part of the family"

Villagers have gathered to say farewell to a postman who has served their community for 36 years.

Myles Boothman joined Royal Mail in 1985 and took on his round in Burn, near Selby, four years later.

He was on first-name terms with many residents, and was often invited into their homes for a cup of tea and a chat.

At a retirement party organised by his customers, Mr Boothman was presented with as giant postage stamp and a gift of £500.

Mr Boothman said he still planned to spend much of his retirement walking.

He added: "On my early rounds, it was quite common to be invited in for a cuppa or a bacon butty, but people are busier now and even in small villages like Burn, they are commuting to jobs miles away.

"I always tried to have a word with folk and encouraged my younger colleagues to say hello.

"Sadly, I might have been the only person some of my customers spoke to in a week."

Burn village turns out for Myles Boothman's retirement party in Burn Methodist Chapel

The 60-year-old thought that during his 40 years in the job, he had walked around the world five times, braving all weathers, traffic and snappy dogs.

Alice Houlden, from Burn Parish Council, made the presentation and said: "Myles has been a part of this village for so long - we wish him all the very best in his retirement, and we will definitely miss his jaunty step and sunny smile!"

Mr Boothman added: "I can't get over all the good wishes and kind words people have offered over the last few weeks.

"Thank you for all the kindness shown over my years delivering round this lovely, friendly village. It's made my job a pleasure."

Listen to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.