Long-serving postmaster Muhammed Saleem has retired from his Heald Green shop after almost 49 years. 

Muhammed opened the shop with his wife Mary, and, more recently, the pair have enlisted the help of their daughter Hanna, too. 

Now 76, Muhammed has decided to retire to spend more time with his family, including his grandchildren. 

Muhammed and Mary are staying local, though, and will remain in Heald Green for their retirement. 

Reflecting on almost five decades of service, Muhammed said: "The best thing about being a Postmaster is helping the community. It is a fulfilling job and I have really enjoyed serving my community."

Muhammed has run the Long Lane post office on Wilmslow Road, Heald Green, for almost half a century (Image - Google Maps)

He added: "I took over from the previous Postmaster, who retired from the role, but then worked for me for a further 10 years.

"During the pandemic my daughter and I kept the Post Office and shop open and customers were really grateful that they could stay local for these vital services. 

"People also wanted to pop in to see friendly familiar faces at this difficult time. It was busy.

"Customers are sad that I'm retiring, but they understand."

Post Office Area Manager, Vicki Patching, said: "Muhammed is a gorgeous man, he's such a lovely person. The local community group want to celebrate his long service and retirement at the village fair as he's beloved by the people of Heald Green! [...] I wish him a very well-earned retirement."

Another well-loved local shopkeeper, Abuakr Sehri, will take on the business in Muhammed's stead.

Speaking of this, Muhammed said: "[People] are pleased that Abuakr is taking over. I didn't want to leave until I had the right person to take on the business, so I'm happy as I really care about my village."

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