POSTMAN Arthur Hart has finally hanging up his sack of letters - after almost half-a-century of making sure the post gets through.

Mr Hart is celebrating his 65th birthday today, after 49 years and four months' service with the Royal Mail delivery office, on Claro Road, Harrogate.

To mark his achievement, and his retirement, he was presented yesterday with a long service award by area manager Andrew Lamb.

Arthur began his career as a telegram boy in Harrogate, his home town, back in 1952 and later became a postman, covering a variety of rounds.

For more than 30 years, he was the familiar face that delivered letters on the Mornington round in the town.

And for the past year he has been out and about on a rural route, covering the area between South Stainley and Ripon.

"I'll miss getting out in the country, seeing all the wildlife, and I'll miss my customers and colleagues. I just wish I could stay on," said Arthur.

Presenting Arthur with his award, Mr Lamb said: "This is a great achievement, to have served the local community as a postman for almost 50 years.

"I'm sure he will be missed by his colleagues and customers alike, and we all wish him the very best for his retirement."