Postie Brian Peacock has taken delivery of his retirement present after 50 years with Royal Mail.

His last shift yesterday turned into a red letter day as colleagues clubbed together for a spectacular send-off.

Brian, 65, of Dale View, Hangleton, Hove, joined the Post Office aged 15 in 1952.

Apart from two years' National Service he has been a postman ever since, and even met his wife Diana on his round.

Dozens of colleagues at the North Road delivery office, Brighton, joined Brian yesterday. Bosses presented him with a camcorder.

He said: "I'm very sad at leaving because I have made so many good friends."