A postman is so popular with villagers that they are mounting a campaign to keep him.

Paul Sheppard faces being switched to another round because of reorganisation, despite liking his job and being liked by all his customers. Now, nearly everyone in Fulbrook, along with businesses in Burford High Street, has signed a petition for Royal Mail demanding: "Hands off our Postie Paul".

The 23-year-old has been doing the round for 4 and half years and loves it.

For residents on his route he is just like the children's storybook character Postman Pat. He delivers by van each day from the Carterton sorting office and has become well-known for his smile and interest in his customers.

Petition organiser Philip Hanley, of Beech Grove, Fulbrook, said: "He gets to know everyone, is trusted, and very cheerful. A lot of old people in the village rely on him. He doesn't just deliver their letters, he checks to see if they are okay. It is reassuring to see him on his round. We would hate to see him go."

So far, about 300 people have signed the petition, while some have also written letters to Royal Mail.

Under the reorganisation, agreed by managers and workforce, postmen, on a league table of years of service, can choose which rounds they want to take. Some have become bigger, earning more money, and Paul's is one of them.

Mr Sheppard, of Glenmore Road, Carterton said: "No-one ever wanted to do the 410 homes and businesses on this round before. It is now the biggest in the office and, because I am 19th in the pecking order, I don't get first choice on it.

"I love it, I get on so well with everyone out there, but it looks like I will have to change," he said.

Royal Mail spokesman Floyd Jebson said: "It is a nationally agreed procedure, based on length of service, and there's little we can do about it.

"It is difficult when customers get used to seeing the same postman for years. But I am sure that in time the new postman will become as well known and liked by villagers."