A postman hailed a Kent town’s best and known for his cheery smile and bad jokes has retired after more than 30 years in the job.

Ralph Lowdon, from Broadstairs, first started working for Royal Mail as a telegram boy in 1975.

He stayed in the role for almost 10 years, before taking a break to run the Curzon Hotel - which has now been turned into flats.

In 2002, he went back to delivering and became a firm favourite with residents on his rounds.

He was known for his friendliness - and for wearing shorts no matter the weather.

The 66-year-old told KentOnline: “It's a bit weird because I’ve had my first actual day not going to work for 50 years.

“It's quite a strange thing but I always keep myself busy.”

A retirement ceremony was held for the popular postie at The Royston Micropub at the end of his last round on Monday.

President of Broadstairs Chamber of Commerce Malcolm Cox said: “He’s a great character. He loves his jokes.

“Every day, he walks into some of the businesses and has a new one to tell you.

“He’s got a wealth of people around who know about him.

“Ralph used to come to my barbers years ago with his boys and they’re all grown men now.”

Shopkeepers chipped in to buy the deliveryman a £500 TUI gift card.

Mr Cox, who has run Malcolm’s Barbers in the High Street for 52 years, added: “He had a really good retirement ceremony. It was a nice get-together.”

Mr Lowdon said: “As my wife would tell you, I'm a bit of a blubber anyway.

“The affection has been unbelievable.”

The dad-of-four, who also coaches football, has looked back on his time in the job, and what he has seen change.

He recalled: “I've done the town for a long time.

“I've seen the changes - the personnel and shops.

“There’s a lot more traffic now.

“People just aren’t as patient anymore, but I've always gone with a smile and a wave.

“I go through the town telling terrible jokes.

“I always treat people the same and that's what I will miss most.

“I will go around in a few days and thank everybody again for their kindness.”

Throughout his career, Mr Lowdon became known for - like many postmen - wearing shorts in all weathers.

He said: “My wife Leigh and I went for a walk on Monday for a couple of hours.

“People said congratulations and a few said, ‘Oh, you can wear long trousers now’.

“But no one's ever seen me in long trousers - and I will continue to wear my shorts.”

He also reports he has been bitten by dogs “more times than he can count”.

“Normally little dogs with sharp teeth,” he added.

Locals have expressed their sadness on social media at seeing their favourite parcel poster leave and congratulated him on his retirement.

Vanessa Delo wrote: “You have been the best postman, ever.

“You always wear a smile, never grumble, and always have time for people.

“You will be missed, but now is your time. Thank you for your years of service to the public.”

Lucy Robinson added: “​​Happy retirement Ralph.

“We're going to miss seeing you daily, with your incredibly cheerful personality.

“Thank you for your patience with all our various dogs and cats.”

Tim Sykes called him an “absolute legend”, while Ely Dorthy said: “What a lovely soul he is.

“He brightens my day with his smile and politeness.

“We won't have another postman like him.”

In his new chapter, Ralph plans to spend more time visiting his son in Madrid, walking, running and playing golf.