A Post Office manager has been recognised for her efforts during lockdown as part of the We’re Stronger Together awards.

Herts Advertiser: Raj Kaur has won the community engagement category in the Post Office's We're Stronger Together awards for Greater London. Picture: Chiswell StudiosRaj Kaur has won the community engagement category in the Post Office's We're Stronger Together awards for Greater London. Picture: Chiswell Studios (Image: Archant)

Raj Kaur, who has run Watford Road Post Office in Chiswell Green for 20 years, received a special commendation from PO bosses during an online event for Greater London.

The We’re Stronger Together awards recognise postmasters’ efforts to stay open during the pandemic and continue serving their community.

When lockdown began Raj visited those facing difficulties with a potted flower and a message reading ‘Be careful. Be safe’ along with her contact details. She also created special badges which said ‘Thinking of you’ which she posted through customers’ doors, and offered free deliveries from the convenience store which she has run with her husband Alan for the past 32 years.

Group chief executive Nick Read, who presented the award virtually, said: “Raj’s branch stayed open full time during lockdown, and she kept spirits up by delivering messages and potted flowers to shielding and bereaved customers; Raj is chair of the local residents association and is loved by the local community which is reflected in the brilliant feedback she always receives all the time.”

Raj said: “Postmasters have always been a great hub of their communities. I just did what comes naturally to me and simply made a heart-felt contribution to those in considerable need. I wish to thank everyone who nominated and gave me this award, but I am sure many others also deserve to share this as well.

“I have been blessed and lucky to live in this village, I feel as though I am part of one big family. The pandemic has caused uncertainty and sadness, but it has brought the community even closer together.”

Area manager Simon Stracey added: “Raj appears to be loved by every single member of her local community. It’s not hard to see why - she is so dedicated and caring. I’ve already had over 100 customer feedback responses for Raj this year - all positive.”