Delph’s new Post Office team receives stamp of approval

October 11 was a red letter day in more ways than one for Delph’s new postmistress.

Uzma and Izhar in the revamped Delph Post Office and store

Not only did she celebrate her birthday but mum of two Uzma Akhtar and husband Izhar marked the first day of their new business venture in the village.

As reported in October’s Independent, the couple have taken over Delph Post Office and store from previous incumbents, Wendy and Eric Dodds.

And they have quickly become a focal point of village life to the delight of Uzma and Izhar.

“It will take time to do everything we want to do,” said Uzma who worked in a Derbyshire Post Office for five years before becoming a full-time mother to sons Ayaan and Eshan.

“But we have already had good feedback. If people come in and we don’t stock something we will go and get it.

“All customers have to do is ask and we will get it for them next time.”

Oldham raised Izhar, with more than a decade’s experience in retail, is responsible for keeping the shelves of the new-look shop stocked up.

Uzma runs the Post Office side because “I am the expert with the cash”.

“We have been looking for the right place for quite some time,” explained Izhar.

“Then I saw Delph advertised and immediately thought ‘why not do something together.”

But Uzma explained: “We can’t survive on just commission from the Post Office side of the business. That’s why we will be building up the store.

“There is the Co-op next door but we’re confident our prices will attract the customers.

“Delph has made us feel very welcome in a short space of time and we’re enjoying being here.”

Delph Post Office and Store is open Monday to Friday from 8am-6pm and Saturday from 9am to 5.30pm.