A VILLAGE is celebrating this week after its popular postman was spared the sack after his mail tray was stolen.

Tim Randall, 39, is said to have broken Royal Mail rules when he left his van unlocked with the keys inside while delivering in Skirmett.

The van was stolen and dumped in Fingest with a tray of letters missing from the back, leaving the postman to face a disciplinary board over his blunder.

But villagers in the affluent area of Hambleden instigated a campaign to save their 'running postman'.

The Duke of Norfolk, whose home is in the village, was one of the most vociferous supporters. He said Mr Randall was 'head and shoulders' above other postmen and added: "I would be prepared to underwrite a recommendation that he be awarded an MBE."

Anthony White, sub post-master at Hambleden, said villagers were 'absolutely delighted' with the news.

He added: "There was a concern that he would lose his job. They could've easily made an example of him. But we all felt very strongly that Tim should not be sacked. Tim is delighted he still has his job. He is really liked here, they call him the Running Postman of Hambleden. He knows everyone's name and is extremely helpful, a real part of the community."

Mr Randall faced the disciplinary board on Wednesday morning and after considering all the facts his bosses decided a slap on the wrist would be enough.

A source from Consignia, which runs Royal Mail, said: "He has been issued with a warning but his job is safe. He is an excellent postman with a great record. His local popularity was obviously taken into consideration."

The van was stolen at 2pm on May 2 by a white male, around 5ft 8in tall, who was wearing an orange t-shirt.