A COUPLE from Christchurch who twice faced down armed robbers have retired from their Post Office after nearly 10 years in the business.

Former postmaster Roy Ritson and his wife, Jessica, have moved to Cornwall following nine and a half years at the popular Hurn Post Office, on Matchams Lane.

During their time there, Roy has faced armed raiders on two separate occasions, in July 30, 2013, and before that in 2008. Both times, each set of offenders are alleged to have been armed.

However, that didn’t faze Roy, and he was later commended by local members of the community for his bravery in the face of crime, whilst looking after the customers who were in the shop at the time.

Speaking of his career at the Post Office, he said: “I have enjoyed every minute at the Post Office over the past nine years.”

He added: “I am just glad that I was in the shop when it happened last month, so that nobody else had to deal with it.

“I chose this job, as I did, and everything that comes with it is dealt with by me, whatever happens.”

Simon Stephens, and Ray Bryan, from nearby Tall Trees Park, presented Roy with a special plaque, pictured left, marking his time at Hurn Post office.

Simon said: “In the six years that I have been coming to Hurn Post Office, I have never seen Roy sad once. He has done a great job over the years.”