Friendly postie Derek Thackwray has received letters after his name - he has been awarded an MBE.

He was named in the New Year's honours list for his happy-go-lucky work in helping customers on his rounds in the Hockley area.

Modest Derek chuckled when he realised he would take delivery of such an accolade, and said: "I'm amazed they picked me out.

"I suppose it was because I like to help my customers. I enjoy chatting with them and trying to cheer them up if they are feeling low.

"If they have any problems, I try to sort them out. After all, it does not cost anything to spare a little time for people, especially if they are old and lonely."

This is not the first time 60-year-old Derek, of The Westerings, Hockley, has been rewarded for his caring ways.

Two years ago he collected a cheque for £1,000 as the Royal Mail Anglia's Postman of the Year.

He later thanked the customers who nominated him by delivering them carnations.

Derek has also been a guest at Buckingham Palace for the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh's golden wedding celebrations.

He now looks forward to picking up his new gong from Her Majesty.

Derek, a former hotel chef, became a postie after divorcing 26 years ago. He moved to Essex from his native Yorkshire.

He has an unmarried son and a daughter, who has four children. They live in Hastings, Sussex.

When he eventually retires Derek plans to get more involved in charity work. He has just been starring in his favourite role - as Santa to Hockley playgroup toddlers. He even grew a beard for the part!

Special delivery - friendly postie Derek Thackwray is awarded an MBE

Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.