A Just Giving page set up to support the family of a much loved postman has raised more than £8,500.

Paul Dunmill from Sutton Valence, known on his rounds as 'Postie Paul', died in hospital on Saturday after contracting Covid-19.

He had been delivering in East Farleigh for the past 20 years and made such an impression, those missing his cheerful presence came together to support his wife Susan, and son Craig financially with the fundraiser.

Remembering his father, Craig Dunmill said: "The Royal Mail was his life. He loved his job and all his customers and colleagues.

"He loved customers' dogs too and they would often sit and wait for him. Sometimes even if he didn't have mail for people he would still pull up to see the dogs if they were outside.

"I think that's why so many people loved him, because he had time for everyone.

"I couldn't have wished for a better father and my mum couldn't have wished for a better husband.

"The world is going to be dull without him. He never had a bad word to say and would help anyone without hesitation.

"If he had a cup of tea while playing a game of snooker, with his family around him, he was happy."

Mr Dunmill was born on January 3, 1964 at Pembury Hospital to Jean and Frank Dunmill.

He was raised in Coxheath and lived in the Maidstone area all his life.

He had been a pupil at Coxheath Primary School and then Cornwallis Academy where he first met his future wife Susan Clarke, in 1978.

Eight years later the pair married in Sutton Valence Church and welcomed their son into the world in 1989.

Six months after leaving school aged 16, he began his 40 year career at the Royal Mail in December 1980.

For a long period, he drove the Royal Mail's 40ft articulated delivery lorries, but he was put onto mail delivery after he developed diabetes in 1998.

He was a keen snooker player and played in the Maidstone and District Snooker League for many years.

Daniel Gamble the chairman of the league said: “Paul was loved in the snooker community.

"Paul turned up every Thursday, gracious in defeat and victory, but most importantly made people laugh and smile. Just an all round lovely guy.

"The league will be dedicating Paul’s commitment by naming a trophy after him. Paul will be truly missed.”

Mr Dunmill, who also loved gardening and reggae music, became unwell the day after his 57th birthday on January 3.

Son Craig said even when he was sick he didn't complain and maintained his brilliant sense of humour.

The funeral arrangements have not yet been determined.

You can visit the appeal for Mr Dunmill here.

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