Desborough postmaster to bow out after first class 16 years

Desborough's outgoing postmaster says the community has made him "feel like family" after announcing he will step down next month.

Nitin Popat, 53, is handing over the reins after 16 years in the role and selling the Havelock Street shop he runs with wife Darshana, 51.

Mr Popat became postmaster in March 2004 and turned a loss-making shop into one which thrives and acts as a central point for the community.

He said: "We are a community and more like a family in Desborough.

"Just the other day I had someone in here asking for help because his phone was broken. The first port of call for so many people is the Post Office."

The former accountant sees more than 200 customers a day, helping out with stamps, postal services, banking, passport applications and more.

Each day either he or his wife get up at 5.30am to get the papers ready before their Post Office services start at 7am. He has also expanded to offer home news delivery and services such as key cutting and dry cleaning, which will continue.

Taking over will be his brother-in-law Hitesh Madlani, who will become the new postmaster on March 13.

Mr Popat, who is moving to Milton Keynes for family reasons, said he will miss the people and the banter and has enjoyed being invited to town celebrations.

He could soon be back behind the counter and hopes to help out whenever the incoming postmaster requires holiday cover.

He said: "The longest job I kept before this was for about five years and I've been here 16 years but could do another five.

"I have loved it. We have made friends that are like family."

He thanked his customers who have supported the him and Darshana over the years.

A Post Office spokesman wished Mr Popat good luck in the next chapter of his life.

They added: "This branch offers customers a wide range of Post Office services, from posting letters and parcels to collecting and returning online shopping items. Customers can also take advantage of a wide range of banking services including cash withdrawals and balance enquiries for customers of all the main UK banks.

"Desborough Post Office is a busy mains branch which also offers many extra services such as car tax renewal, passport check and send, international driving licence."