After seven decades of dedicated work, a remarkable individual is finally stepping back.
Joe Wardman, aged 82, has been a fixture in his community as one of the oldest paperboys in the world.
His journey began at the tender age of 11, back in 1954, and it has been a significant part of his life ever since.
Taking Over the Family Business
Following the death of his father, Richard, in 1964, Joe took over the family business, Wardmans Newsagents, alongside his mother.
This newsagent, co-founded by his father in 1922 in Barrow, Cumbria, became not just a job but a lifelong commitment for Joe.
He ran the business until 2011 but continued delivering papers even after his official retirement.
His final delivery was made at the White Lion pub in town on September 21, marking the end of an era.
A Hard Decision to Make
When asked about his decision to retire, Joe reflected, “I’d done my 70 years, and I thought there’s nothing else I can achieve with it now.”
Recent storms and heavy winds played a part in his choice, but he remains active in the community, feeling fit and involved.
He is pleased to see a young man taking over his route, especially since he uses an electric bike, making the job easier and more enjoyable.
Memories of a Changing Industry
Joe’s delivery career kicked off when his older brother was called up for National Service in 1951, but it became a full-time role just a few years later.
He recalls working through significant events, including the famous 1959 printer’s strikes that lasted seven weeks.
In those days, he delivered the North-West Evening paper, which had two daily editions and cost just 1p.
He fondly remembers delivering to the navy, including the crew of the HMS Dreadnought submarine, and the excitement of climbing onto ships with little safety in place.
“I’d look down at the water petrified and think, ‘Jesus!’” he laughed, recounting those nerve-wracking moments.
A Chronicle of Community Life
Over the years, Joe witnessed many historic events, from the Queen’s Coronation in 1953 to the first Britons conquering Everest.
The 1960s brought a surge of readers eager for news about The Beatles and the Rolling Stones.
Despite the rise of television, Joe believes printed news still held a vital place in people’s lives, both locally and nationally.
“I love the paper, the town, and the people in it— I guess that’s why I’m a workaholic,” he shared.
Joe often glanced at national papers, particularly enjoying the sports sections, but it was his personal connections that mattered most.
Building Relationships
Throughout his long career, Joe formed meaningful relationships with his customers.
He went above and beyond, climbing through windows for those locked out and helping elderly neighbors with eye drops.
“I’ve always spoken to them like they’re one of my family,” he said, illustrating his commitment to community service.
As he embarks on this new chapter, Joe Wardman leaves behind not just a job but a legacy of care and connection that has enriched the lives of many.
What’s next for him? Perhaps more time for himself and the community he has dedicated his life to.
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