A MILKMAN who is a hero to many and a friend to all of his customers is retiring after more han 30 years on his round.
Chris Davis does not just deliver milk and newspapers – he makes sure things are alright while he’s out and about, from picking up a blown-away bin lid to having a chat with someone living alone.
In 2015 Chris was nominated for a Pirate FM Local Hero award by Mandy Hancock, in recognition of the support he had given to her elderly father over many years, and for his calm headed and kind assistance on the terrible day she lost her brother.
Amongst his hundreds of customers in Liskeard and surrrounding villages there are many stories of how Chris has brightened people’s day or stepped in when something more serious has happened.
Chris is not one to seek the limelight, says his wife Mandy, and would typically be modest about what he does.
’Chris is an old fashioned milkman,’ she said.
’Along with posting letters, and doing the odd bit of shopping for old people or changing lightbulbs, he’s even put on hairnets!
’He has come to the rescue a number of times, helping by calling the ambulance service a few times.
’He’s a very gentle, genuine bloke and I think he thinks that what he does for people is what anyone would do, but I don’t think they would.
’Some of his customers have been very tearful thinking that he’s leaving.’
It was following a bad injury of his own around a year ago, from which he feels lucky to have recovered, that Chris has decided it’s time to step down.
He said: ’My customers have been alongside me for so many aspects of my life, from seeing my children grow while they help me on the round, to hearng stories of them forging careers and having children of their own.
’It’s for this reason that at 67, I’ve decided to spend more quality time around my family, with Mandy, my wife, my children Justin, Shelley, Emma and Mark, and our three (very soon to be four) grandchildren.’
Chris says that he’ll be looking forward to taking a holiday and spending more time gardening when he finishes work – but for the time being, he’ll still be around in his van as he hands over the reins to JJ Moss, who is taking on the round.
’The business will be run by a person I’m sure will serve all the customers well,’ said Chris.
’JJ is a friend I have known for a number of years and I wouldn’t pass this amazing job onto someone I didn’t think suitable.
’Many people have become both loyal customers and trusted friends over the years and I hope to continue to see them while I’m out and about enjoying my retirement.’
Since Chris announced his plans, messages wishing him well have come flooding in. One customer said: ’Congratulations on many years of commitment to your business, you’ll be missed’, while another commented: ’Thankyou from us both for all the years of wonderful service’
Another local resident said: ’Enjoy your retirement Chris, I know you’ll be missed, but you definitely deserve to take it easier!’
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