A local postie has hung up his shorts after 37 years of service.

Oakham's longest serving postman, Keith Gasson, completed his final shift on Saturday 8 April.

Keith is a familiar face with Oakham locals, and their dogs, having delivered post in Oakham, Greetham, Stretton and Clapham for an impressive 37 years.

This Easter, he made his rounds for the last time before hanging up his shorts.

His step-daughter, Leanne Murphy, said: "We are immensely proud of Keith Gasson. 37 years of service, and Oakham's longest serving postman. 

"Throughout the years of growing up with Keith, I have always only ever heard how brilliant at his job he is. He has created and formed great relationships with all of his customers (and dogs) who clearly have appreciated all his hard work and how he has gone above and beyond for them all.

"He worked throughout the pandemic and now at the grande age of 66 he believes it is time to hang up his shorts!"

Marking his achievement, Keith was also named as Rutland & Stamford Sound's Hero of the week.

Many residents have also shared their memories of Keith and congratulated him upon his retirement.

One posted on social media: "The best postman ever. Will be hugely missed. I hope he has a wonderful retirement."

Another shared: "Been lucky enough to have Keith as our postman for all of his 37 year reign. He is an absolute legend and is going to be really missed. Have a wonderful and well deserved retirement Keith."

Congratulations Keith from Nub News!