Barking mad! Postman’s costume banned after ‘sensitivity’ complaint

Mablethorpe resident Bethany Walker took this photo of Mike Nelhams on one of his postal rounds.

Michael Nelhams has been widely praised by the Mablethorpe community for wearing a variety of costumes (pictured) during his rounds in the town, but he has been forced to stop wearing his dog-related costume after the Royal Mail suggested that it failed to show ‘sensitivity’, due to the fact that there are hundreds of dog attacks on postmen and women across the UK each year.

Several Mablethorpe residents alleged that someone made a complaint about the costume, leading to Michael’s reprimand from the Royal Mail - although the company did not confirm whether or not an official complaint had been received.

A Royal Mail spokesperson told the Leader: “Over the last few weeks we have been inundated with messages and pictures from our customers across the country in praise of the extra lengths our postmen and women have been going during the coronavirus crisis to raise spirits, and money, for local charities.

Michael Nelhams in the ‘offending’ costume. (Photo: Submitted)

“We know that local communities really value what our postmen and women are doing in these challenging times, and we’re really proud of them.

“On very rare occasions, we have asked colleagues to show sensitivity in their choice of costumes.

“Last year saw 2,484 dog attacks on postmen and women across the UK, some resulting in serious injury.”

Michael confirmed that he would continue to make his community smile, telling the Leader: “I’m still going out in fancy dress, (but) not wearing the dog-biting-bum costume. I’m keeping the spirit of my customers and making many people smile in these hard times in lockdown.”

Mr Nelhams in one of his other humorous costumes. (Photo: Submitted)

Mablethorpe residents have lavished praised on Michael for his work, and have condemned the alleged complainant and the Royal Mail for being ‘killjoys’.

On a public community Facebook page, Steven Jubb said: “I can’t believe someone has actually complained about that. What they should be doing is thanking them for doing a fantastic job.”

Missy Sparrow said: “Why ruin it for the kiddies and those of us who love to see a bit of happiness in our village?”

Stuart Hurren added: “Shame really, as posties are doing their best at making something good at a very difficult time.

“They’re putting themselves at risk every day by visiting all the houses.

“If having a laugh helps make their job easier and brings a smile to everyone’s face, what’s the harm? Killjoys!”

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