Mick Rodgers (left) has worked the round in Hemingford Grey since 2016
Royal Mail has confirmed that a Huntingdonshire village's beloved postman will be replaced, despite sustained opposition.
Mick Rogers has worked the round in Hemingford Grey since 2016 but is set to be moved to a new delivery area, a letter from Royal Mail seen by The Hunts Post confirms.
Resident Gareth Baldwin said he was "deeply affected" by the decision and launched a petition, which has gained more than 240 signatures, calling on the company to reverse its decision.
He told this newspaper Mr Rogers is "loved by people in the village", adding that he is "not just a familiar face", but a "vital" part of the community.
MP for Huntingdon Ben Obese-Jecty confirmed he had written to Royal Mail to "query" it's decision and has since received a response.
A spokesperson for Royal Mail said it "continually reviews" delivery rounds to ensure "fair distribution of workload".
Reassuring locals, the company confirmed the new postie would deliver the "same high level of service as they are currently receiving."
They added: "It is always good to hear that our posties, like Mick, are appreciated for the work they do and their contribution to the communities they serve.
"I have been in touch with the customer operations manager at Huntingdon Delivery Office, who has confirmed that all delivery rounds are changing which means that posties may be delivering to a new area.
"Royal Mail is continually adapting to the rapidly changing nature of the modern postbag, which now comprises of more and more parcels and fewer letters.
"We are very proud of the many dedicated individuals, like Mick, we have at Royal Mail who are firmly committed to serving the communities they serve."
Mr Obese-Jecty said he understood the "disappointment" of Hemingford Grey residents and thanked Mr George for his "invaluable" service to the community.
He added: "Having met the hardworking staff at the local depot over Christmas, I know they are all fully committed to maintaining the high level of service the community has come to expect.
"I want to thank all our posties for their invaluable contribution to our communities, as clearly demonstrated by the public's support for Mick."
