Pooley Bridge Village Stores has bid a fond farewell to its popular milk and newspaper delivery man, Graham Roberts, who has retired from the role at the age of 84.
A well-loved member of the community, Graham has driven a route around Pooley Bridge, Tirril, Sockbridge, Yanwath, Eamont Bridge, and Brougham delivering milk and groceries as well as daily newspapers, for almost three years.
His shift from 6am until 10am every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday also saw him regularly go the extra mile helping colleagues by collecting orders, sweeping up and sorting supplies.
A chance meeting with store owner Gary Dudson when Graham was on one of his regular walks through the village, led to him taking the job which saw him delivering as many as 250 papers on his busy shift.
Graham recalled: “Gary said he was looking for someone to do the deliveries and I thought I would give it a go. It was just meant to be for the duration of the summer, but I ended up staying for longer. I really enjoyed the job.
“It was good to get out and about and I liked seeing everyone. It was a pleasure to work for such a lovely family business.”
He boasted a 100% attendance record, with the exception of his final shift two weeks ago, when the heavy snowfall meant it was impossible for Graham to get out of his driveway at home in Tirril.
Originally from Manchester, Graham worked in a number of jobs in the hospitality industry including running a pub in Dover before moving to the Lake District to retire 26 years ago.
However, as he likes to be busy, he didn’t stop working entirely. One of his previous jobs was as a cook at a local care home which he took on aged 72.
A well-known figure locally, Graham walks four miles around Tirril every day, often picking up litter or doing some weeding as he goes. He plans to spend some of his well-earned retirement travelling with his wife, Margaret.
“I like to be active and busy. I enjoy having something to do. I won’t be bored in retirement as I am sure I’ll find things to do,” he added.
Carl Henderson, team leader at the store paid tribute to Graham for his dedication and said he had been a fantastic credit to the business.
“Customers would regularly comment on how friendly and polite Graham was. He worked really hard and always looked out for residents and helped out with their shopping if they were unwell.
“He had a fantastic knowledge of the area and was the first to assist with any extra jobs. We wish him a very happy retirement. He will be really missed by all of the team and our customers.”
It’s clear Graham’s will be hard shoes to fill and store customers may not have seen the last of him -— hardworking Graham has offered to help out with holiday cover if needed
