Postmistress Jackie Parkinson is being awarded for 30 years’ service to the Post Office – and is bringing out the baking to celebrate the occasion.
She has been Postmistress of Barnsley’s Huddersfield Road shop for 23 years and ran the nearby Gawber shop for the seven years prior.
Jackie was well-loved by her customers. She enjoyed baking and for Christmas and to mark special occasions, she would bring in cake treats for her loyal customers.
Post Office Area Change Manager, David Woodhead, said: “Jackie and her husband Jim have served the Barnsley community diligently for over 30 years. I would like to celebrate Jackie’s dedication to her role and being a hub for the community. Thank you for the care, commitment and the challenges you have faced and overcome. Wishing you every happiness in retirement.”
Jackie said being a Postmistress was rewarding work and she really got to know her customers, saying: “It’s been a nice job to have; it’s nice being with people all day long, and talking to them, and getting to know people. You’re looking after people, sometimes at their lowest, sometimes at their best, and a lot in between – and just being helpful."
Jackie’s dedication led to her being a finalist in the Post Office’s ‘We’re Stronger Together’ regional awards 2020, in the Community Engagement category for the North of England region. Her shop’s nomination recognised Jackie’s support of vulnerable customers during the Covid-19 pandemic, including opening her phone line to older members of her community as needed.
New owners have taken over Huddersfield Road Post Office, 81 Huddersfield Road, Barnsley, to continue to provide vital services to the community.