Intrepid aviator and Pembrokeshire subpostmaster John Fisher is celebrating an incredible 40 years' service with the Post Office.

Mr. John Fisher, 69, of Lamphey Post Office, received his long service award from Post Office regional manager, Lisa Barton at his branch yesterday (Thursday).

John took over Lamphey Post Office, petrol station and store in October 1972 as a father of a young family and as his first venture into owning his own business.

John's family had previously worked in the hotel trade which triggered his entrepreneurial spirit.

John recalls that in those early days the business was far more rudimentary, with a fire guard being used as a make-shift counter screen until the Post Office could be properly fitted out.

Nowadays, the business has grown substantially and provides employment for eight local people as it provides services from 8 am - 8 pm, seven days a week.

The family business also sees John's daughter, Emma helping out with the Post Office service.

John's Lamphey branch serves a rural community and he knows how important it is for his customers to have access to the good quality, local and friendly service that he provides.

John takes an active interest in supporting community events and helps with fund-raising initiatives for local good causes.

Away from the Post Office, John's great passion is flying - an interest which was sparked by a trial flying lesson presented to him as a birthday present by his late wife.

John's flight at local Withybush Airfield got him well and truly hooked, and not satisfied with securing his private pilot's license, John figured that he could use his previous engineering skills to build and fly his own aircraft.

This wasn't a flight of fancy for John as he realised his dream in 2004, when he flew his home-made aircraft for the first time.

Since then, John has flown to many parts of the world with family and friends.

Commenting on his award, John said: "It's been quite a surprise, but a lovely one to receive this award. It is very nice to be recognised for serving the local community.

"I am very lucky as many of my customers have become my friends over the years and this makes the award extra special for me. I love dealing with people, providing them with advice and trying to solve their problems."

Post Office regional manager Lisa Barton said: "It's great to be able to recognise the hard work that our Subpostmasters put in serving the community and I would like to congratulate John on his 40 years of loyal and dedicated service to our customers."