Anil Patel, has reached a major milestone as postmaster for Harehills Post Office in Leeds for 30 years.
Together with wife, Rita, they have run Harehills Post Office and convenience store at 275 Roundhay Road, Leeds, LS8 4HS.
Prior to them taking over the branch had been in a nearby side street, but they wanted to attract passing trade. Larger premises with more retail room allowed them to add a convenience shop alongside Harehills Post Office.Anil and Rita are
at the heart of their community. They really care about their customers as they know them well and they know three generations of the same family.
They are both kind-hearted. They know that times can be tough for their customers. There have been many occasions when customers have run out of money to buy food and they discreetly ask if they can have some food and to pay back when their benefit money comes through and the couple oblige and these customers are true to their word and repay.
Postmaster Anil Patel said: “Our customers are loyal to us, and we help them out in return. It works both ways our customers support us, and we support them. My wife is an angel – so kind and caring and a good listener.
“A Postmaster still has a lot of respect in a community that they serve. People will come in for advice about Post Office services and other matters and we’re happy to help.
“We stayed open throughout the pandemic as the community depended on us for the post office services and food.
“Times have changed in the last 30 years that we have been here. There used to be lots of banks in this area and now they have all gone, but people can come here to do their everyday banking, including free cash withdrawals and depositing cash and cheques.”
Their son, who grew up with his parents running Harehills Post Office has gone on to run his own Post Office.
To mark Anil’s 30 years in the role he was presented with a Post Office 30 Years’ Long Service Award.
Post Office Area Manager, Dawn Penty, said: “Anil and his wife, Rita, really care about the community that they serve and go the extra mile to help the people of Harehills. I want to sincerely thank them for their long and loyal service – they really make a difference to people’s lives.”