LONG-serving Postmaster, Ian Carruthers, is to retire from Peebles Post Office this month after running several different Scottish branches over nearly 33 years.

Ian’s first career was as a butcher before he and his wife June decided to take on a Post Office.

They went to look at Earlston Post Office and June unexpectedly recognised the Postmaster’s wife as someone that she had worked with. They took that as a “sign” and bought this branch in November 1990.

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He also provided holiday cover at different variety of Post Office branches and that made Ian decide to take on a larger Post Office at Peebles in June 1997. Earlston later closed.

At one time the Carruthers also had another branch at Innerleithen, which was run by June until they sold the branch. June then did ad hoc work at Peebles.

Ian managed to keep Peebles Post Office during the pandemic and it was a really busy time as people were working from home and wanted to stay local.

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The community greatly appreciated this for the variety of Post Office services including letters and parcels, home shopping returns and banking, plus cards and stationery to send things.

Postmaster, Ian Carruthers, said: “We have really enjoyed our time serving several communities.

“I have been at Peebles Post Office a long time and I will really miss my customers that I have got to know so well over so many years. So many customers have been very kind and they have brought us presents and cards.”

A new, experienced Postmaster will take over the Post Office at 14 Eastgate, Peebles, Lothian, EH45 8AA on 23 August.

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Two experienced members of staff, Becky, who has worked at Peebles for 22 years, and Alison, will continue to work at the branch.

Post Office Area Manager, Chistopher Tarn, said: “I want to sincerely thank Ian Carruthers for his long and loyal service to several communities over the past three decades. Ian will be sorely missed by the people of Peebles.

“Many customers have given gifts and cards to show their appreciation. We are delighted that an experienced Postmaster will continue to provide vital services to the community.

“Ian has also been very supportive of other Postmasters in Scotland. I wish Ian Carruthers a well-earned retirement.”

Ian and June will continue to live in Galashiels. They are looking forward to having more time to chill. Ian is also looking to continue to offer holiday relief cover for other Postmasters.

During his time at Peebles Post Office Ian has held several roles with the National Federation of Sub Postmasters as Regional President, Regional Secretary and Branch Secretary. This organisation helps support other Postmasters and to share ideas to improve their businesses.