Peter Lomas has also been banned by the Post Office from driving a post van.

The 12-month ban was imposed after Mr Lomas briefly left the keys in his van's ignition and it was driven away.

The van was later recovered and two men were arrested.

Last week, villagers in Pickmere, where Mr Lomas has worked for seven years, launched a campaign to have him reinstated.

"He was very popular because he was just so friendly," said Gina Gates, postmistress at Pickmere Post Office.

"He really was part of the village and would recognise any strangers so we just want his bosses to know we really miss him.

Many residents have already signed a petition.

Jenny Curtin, who lives near Pickmere Lane said: "I thought it was important to sign the petition because I felt Peter was treated like the criminal not the victim.

"He was always very caring and checked on how people were doing even if they didn't have any post that day."

Mr Lomas, who lives in Knutsford, now does a round on a bike.

He is planning to appeal against the disciplinary action.

He said: "I really miss my round.

"It was a rural round so I got to know many people in the community.

Yesterday, Tuesday, a spokesman for the Post Office said: "We don't discuss internal disciplinary matters."

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