Post Office couple retire after two decades
LAST POST ... For Alan and Carol Riddell are leaving the Boldon Post office after 21 years
A COUPLE who have run a Post Office for more than two decades are preparing for life on the other side of the counter.
Alan and Carol Riddell have worked in East Boldon Post Office, in Front Street, for 21 years, but are retiring next month.
On February 12 they will open up the shop they love for the last time before handing over the reins to someone else.
As well as working at the shop, sub-postmaster Mr Riddell and his wife, both 61, have lived next door throughout their time there, but will now be moving to Hylton Castle.
Mr Riddell said: “We’ve had a great time here and we feel like we know everyone in the village.
“Everyone has been so kind to us since they’ve found out we’re retiring and we really appreciate all the kind words.
“Living next door has been lovely and we’re going to miss everyone.
“It will be very strange not living here and not coming into work every day but we’re ready for a change and a rest.”
The couple have two daughters, Jessica George, 34, who is mum to Bethany, 10, and Charlie, six, and Joanne Johnston, 40, who is mum to Lewis, also six.
The couple are looking forward to spending some time with their family in their retirement.
Mr Riddell added: “We’ve seen our customers’ little ones grow up over the years and we now want to spend some time looking after our own grandchildren and watching them grow up.
“We’d like to say thank you to everyone who has made us feel so welcome over the last 21 years.”
Edward Vardy will take over from Mr Riddell as sub-postmaster.
Mr Riddell said: “We hope he’s as happy here as we have been. I’m sure our customers will make him very welcome.”
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Sunday 19 May 2013
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