TAKE my hat off to our postmen.

I never really understood what torture they go through until this week.

I had a taste of their work while delivering hundreds of jumble bags for a charity - and not in an easy terraced area.

There were homes with double sweeping drives, doors up 10 steps, and those uphill and down dale.

As a result I've got sore feet, an aching back and segs on the back of my middle finger.

I've decided that changes should be made to help our, until now, unsung heroes - until they're wiped out by e-mail. First I'd ban loose gravel paths, houses with front doors round the side, all front gates and letter boxes that bite.

And just for environmental niceties hanging baskets that contain artificial flowers. Naff!

Then I'd bring in legislation that all mail boxes should be placed on external gateposts, to save both time and shoe leather.

Alternatively all post should be sealed in plastic bags to allow it to be slung into gardens - US delivery boy-style.

It wouldn't half make the job easier. Believe me I wouldn't relish doing the morning express delivery every day, especially in winter.

All I can say is thanks posties for a sterling job.