Leslie Westwood will now be able to turn over, ignore the rain hammering on his bedroom window and enjoy the sheer pleasure of a long lie in.

The popular postie, who is 60-years-old, hung up his bag for the last time yesterday (Tuesday) when he retired after 37 years of delivering the mail. Leslie, of Perryfield Road, Bromsgrove, began work for Royal Mail in Bromsgrove in September 1966.

"What I have liked most about the job is being able to work on your own," he said. "Your delivery is your responsibility, and that freedom to plan your own work is ideal."

Bromsgrove delivery office manager Clive Hall said: "Leslie has delivered in the Churchfields area for the last six years and I am sure he will be missed by his customers.

"I would like to thank him for all his hard work over the last 37 years and wish him a happy retirement."

Leslie added: "This is a friendly office and has been a good place to work.

"I will miss my work colleagues but I am looking forward to my retirement and a lie in."