A POSTMAN has been presented with an award after decades of dedication to his parish.

Stephen Page-Mitchell, from Bexhill, received the British Citizen Award (BCA) at the Palace of Westminster, in London, after more than 30 years of deliveries in Ashburnham, in rural East Sussex.

Postman Steve, as he is affectionately known, is “instrumental in the social fabric” of Ashburnham, having set up clubs and social groups in the area, and made it his role to check on residents’ wellbeing during the pandemic.

The BCAs recognise “exceptional individuals who positively impact their communities”.

A spokeswoman from BCA’s partner, One Stop, said: “Steve has demonstrated that he has always been prepared to go the extra mile beyond simply bringing the community their mail.

The Argus: Tim Vincent, left, Postman Steve, centre, and Dame Mary Perkins at the BCAsTim Vincent, left, Postman Steve, centre, and Dame Mary Perkins at the BCAs

“His actions prove he believes that working in a rural community comes with an unwritten duty to keep a special lookout for people that live on their own, to be an extra eye for security, help newcomers and offer a daily dose of good humour.”

Steve was also key in setting up the area’s Women’s Institute by distributing its welcome letters, which is still in operation today, 13 years later.

The BCA presentation was hosted by TV presenter Tim Vincent, and attended by BCA Patron Dame Mary Perkins, Founder of Specsavers, and Baroness Caroline Cox.