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Since contacting us, via the Guestbook, Harry, now a Great Grandfather, has supplied various anecdotes, photos and reminiscences:
This 1968 photo of a Post Office Social Evening, taken at the Black Horse, is yet another from Harry's archive - he is pictured on the left of the back row.
Left to right - back row:
Harry Maddison; Raymond Wright; Selwyne Smedley & Dick Russell
Front row: Harry Raw; Frank Warwick (Postmaster) & Arthur Pilkinson.
This 1952 photo of Harry was taken, outside the yard gates of the Old Delivery Office in Flatts Road, Barnard Castle, on a BSA Bantam.
Again taken in 1952 this photo shows Harry on his way to the Silver Bridge over the River Tees near Orchard Brae, Flatts Road, Barnard Castle. He is riding a James with Villiers engine with a hand [gear] change.
Remembrance Sunday at the Bowes Museum 1962.
Harry's 'Promotion letter from the Head Postmaster at Darlington. [Harry - Fred gets more than that in Reserved Rights as a PHG!]
Instructions for Outdoor Messengers T 1032 H (Revd. 4023/35.)
Harry has forwarded his 'Boy Messenger Rule Book' issued to him back in 1951 [signed as carefully read and understood 2/7/51].
Rule 1. states:-
"Except when cycling, you should salute the Postmaster and other superintending officers whenever you meet them". Rule 1 also states: "Always take off your cap when in the office, stand at attention on the entry of a Superior Officer into your kitchen or waiting room, and be respectful in your manner when spoken too".
Rather aptly, during the current heat wave, Rule 14 states:-
"During summer weather you may wear a white straw sailor hat with plain black band instead of your uniform cap". [The 'Boater' can be seen on the Home Page as worn by Postman GWA Thorne.]
Harry delivering the Queens Telegram.
27 Jan 07.
Upon reading the Barney Postmasters Order Books Harry reminisces...
"I particularly enjoyed reading the reports of Tony Raine, Postmaster 1951 when I first started. He was such a lovely man - I don't know if you were aware that he was an officer in the Salvation Army, Captain I think, anyway, he often visited the villages around Barney - Cockfield, Staindrop etc. giving slide shows with his Magic Lantern (I'm showing my age now!). He asked me if I would go as his assistant on several occasions, which I did gladly. My job was to put the slide into the lantern whilst he explained the pictures. I must admit I did put some slides in upside down which would raise a laugh but he saw the funny side of it and never complained - he was such a Gentleman, to me a lowly telegram boy - he was my Icon.
Very sweet an happy memories - very much appreciated.
8 Dec 07.
Dear Harry & Joan Maddison,
Many thanks for the 'Magical' Christmas Card and the bouquet enclosed.
Season's greetings, Fred & Dave.
Harry writes:-
"Dear Fred & Dave,
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate you on the wonderful job you have done creating the Royal Mail Teesdale Website. It is very comforting to know that my old friends and colleagues, who I have been so very proud to have known and worked with, shall be remembered for many years to come. Thanks to you and the work you have done to create this lasting memory.
Very well done!
Many many thanks,
Harry Maddison".
Calligraphy envelop in Harry's hand!
What year would this be Harry when you cycled Bowes Rural Post ?
The bicycle has long since been replaced by an Official Motor Vehicle (OMV)!
And yes we do like the figurine. (Who's the 'Little Angel' on the portrait ?) Thanks for sharing.
