Lothian postman delights residents with hilarious fancy dress outfits

A postman in West Lothian has been spreading joy to the residents on his rounds by dressing in an array of hilarious costumes.

Ian Buckle, from Broxburn, started wearing fancy dress to work three weeks ago when the lockdown was extended.

“I saw the disappointment on the faces of my customers and children at windows on my round,” the 46-year-old explained, “and I thought other than a wave and smile, I would cheer them up - and bought the dog-biting-bum costume.”

Paying tribute to his “great” customers, Ian said: “They mean a lot to me, and if I can brighten their day a little and make them smile then my job is done.”

He says wearing fancy dress to work is “definitely a great way to give that personal touch back and have a laugh and giggle with them.”

Since then he delivered mail to the people of Broxburn dressed as a nun, an Oompa Loompa, and a red post box, amongst other outfits.

Asked how residents have reacted to his new wardrobe, Ian said: “They are loving it and encouraging me to keep it up. People are actually driving round to find me to take a photo.

“There are also three ladies that stop me every day for a photo for their daughter, grandchildren and one for her mum in Dunbar,” Ian explained.

“I have also had people tap me on the shoulder in a local shop called Waz's and thank me for bringing a cheer to their elderly parents on my run.”

Jacquie Walsh, from Broxburn, called her postie “a breath of fresh air.”

“Ian has time for everyone,” the 48-year-old said, “He stops to chat, he stops for pictures and he lives for the kids.”

“The community spirit has come out. Everyone has been helping each other. It’s fab the way our street has come together - Ian has lifted spirits no end too,” she added.

And Ian is not just popular in Broxburn anymore.

“My Facebook goes nuts daily with friends from all over the globe waiting to see in his new daily outfit,” explained Jacquie.

And Ian is not stopping at fancy dress. He is about to begin training for a marathon, raising money for the Shannon Hughes Foundation and Children on The Edge (COTE).

“I lost my daughter at a young age and I'm passionate about giving children the best start to life or treatment,” he said.

Donations to Ian’s JustGiving page can be made here.

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