Popular Portknockie postie hailed in huge show of thanks

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THERE were plaudits aplenty for Portknockie's popular postie when the village turned out in force to hail his exceptional service.

There was a surprise in store for Jamie Shewan when he began his rounds last Monday when he discovered scores of residents, young and old, had displayed messages in their windows thanking him for going above and beyond the call of duty day in, day out during the eight years he has been delivering to the village.

Driven by Facebook Messenger posts between Portknockie residents, the move was kept a closely guarded secret until Mr Shewan came to town with the mail.

It all came as something of a shock to the 43-year-old, who has been with the Royal Mail since 2007.

"This was all a big surprise, I've had cards and messages, even sweeties left out for me," Mr Shewan said.

"I hadn't a clue this was going to happen and I can't thank everybody enough for this.

"It's left me speechless and it's not often that happens!

"This is all very humbling. I love the Portknockie run, they're a really thoughtful and kind bunch of people here. I'm always keen to help folk out if I can. If they.re out working when I come by with a parcel, for example, I'll try and leave it with a neighbour or somewhere safe.

"When I finish my round I'll often go back and check if folk are in who I missed earlier."

The well-liked postie was typically modest about it all and keen to share the limelight with others.

"This isn't just for me, it's for all my colleagues as well and recognises all the hard we're doing at the moment," he continued.

"We are key workers but the real key workers for me are in the NHS, the care workers, people doing jobs like that.

"At the end of the day, I hope everybody keeps safe, goes by the official guidelines and we'll see you all soon hopefully."

The tributes came as no surprise at all to Buckie Royal Mail delivery manager Martin Cole.

"Jamie, like the rest of his colleagues, are working really, really hard to maintain a sense of normality for people who are stuck inside due to self-isolating or the lockdown," Mr Cole said.

"We're all very proud of him and grateful to the people of Portknockie for recognising him in this way.

"It's great to see them take the time to show their gratitude.

"I'm proud of him and all the staff here and appreciate everything they do for the people of Buckie and the surrounding area."

Since the lockdown came into force last month leading to all but essential stores having to close, a greater burden has been placed on postal workers' shoulders as they cope with a huge leap in the number of items being bought online.

Royal Mail nationally, like other firms, has at the same time to contend with staff having to self-isolate according to government and NHS guidelines.

While Mr Shewan is not one to crave the spotlight, he nevertheless remains a legend to the legions of Buckie Thistle fans thanks to his devoted service to the club. A stalwart defender for his hometown team, he hung up his boots in 2013 at the age of 36 but not before helping the Jags end their five-decade long Highland League title drought with back-to-back championships in 2009-10 and 2010-11.

His commitment to the cause and willingness to put the team before himself has earned him role-model status for younger players coming through the ranks.