A popular former postie has passed away after serving Halstead for more than 30 years.

Richard Hunt, known as “Rick”, died on October 1 aged 59, after being diagnosed in 2009 with colon cancer, which spread to his lungs, liver and brain.

His wife of 22 years, Kaye, who was also a postman, added: “He started as a messenger boy when he was 15, before being a postman in Braintree and Dunmow and then in Halstead.

“He loved the job and was very popular.

“His favourite part was going out and delivering the letters.

“He was very proud to be serving the community.”