Community raises thousands for much-loved postie on his retirement

People in East Allington and surrounding villages have raised more than £2,700 as a thank you to their much-loved postman Paul. 

Paul Webb announced he was retiring at the end of April after 15 years on his round, and was looking forward to spending more time with his family. 

East Allington resident Emma McBride decided it would be nice for the village to raise some 'thank you' money for Paul since he goes "above and beyond, come rain or shine" and set up a GoFundMe page, expecting to raise a couple of hundred pounds. 

Paul Webb with Emma McBride and her children Esme and Koa 

In a show of how well-liked and respected Paul was by the people on his round, the grand total was £2,870! After GoFundMe took their charge, that meant the community could present Paul with a cheque for £2,754.42 on his last day. 

Emma said: "Paul is just one of the kindest people. He works so hard and has done for many many years now. He chats his way round the village and the surrounding area and listens to all sorts at people's doorsteps. He probably would have some good stories to tell!

"I think everyone will agree that no matter how many years Paul has been your friendly postman - that he really is a super lovely guy! He's just one of those people that makes the world a better place, and we wanted to let him know that all the little things he has done over the years haven't gone unnoticed."

Paul was unaware of the donations until just a few weeks before he retired and was "overwhelmed" to be greeted by around 50 people who showed up at the village hall to wish him well on his last day as a very well-loved postie, and "couldn't thank people enough" for their generosity.

Anthea McCoy always creates seasonal displays at the end of her drive to welcome people into the village and Paul got his own design for April. 

Anthea McCoy created this display at the entrance to the village to thank Paul for all his hard work 

Whoever takes over the round from Paul has some big shoes to fill!