Matthew visited the Hendon Delivery Office to see first-hand the operation of delivering Christmas post and to pass on season’s greetings to its hardworking staff.

Matthew was shown around the office by Delivery Office Manager, Adrian, and was introduced to his local postman and his colleagues who are pulling out all the stops to sort and deliver mail in the Hendon area over the Christmas period.

The festive season is Royal Mail’s busiest period as millions of people shop online for gifts and send Christmas cards and parcels.

As Royal Mail’s 500th anniversary draws to a close, this Christmas provides an opportunity to reflect on the centuries of hard work delivering to every single address in the UK.

Adrian, Royal Mail Delivery Office Manager, said: “It was a pleasure to showcase our operation and to hear the kind words of encouragement and support.”

Matthew said: “At no other time is the hard work and dedication of postmen and women clearer than during the festive period.

“I thank them for the extraordinary lengths they go to ensure Christmas cards and presents are delivered to loved ones on time, and for all they do year-round.”