David Davies MP swapped the corridors of Westminster for the streets of Chepstow when he turned postie for the day.
Mr Davies was invited by Royal Mail to join local postie Ian Williams on his round in order to gain an insight into the challenges of delivering mail to homes and businesses in Monmouthshire, six days a week.
Royal Mail delivery manager Ben Fowler briefed the Monmouth MP before he set off on his walk.
“We’re delighted that David took the time to experience the everyday challenges faced by our delivery postmen and women,” said Mr Fowler.
“The visit gave us the opportunity to show him how we are continuing to modernise our organisation.
“We have invested in new sorting and delivery equipment as we respond to the changing nature of the modern postbag. We are delivering more parcels and fewer letters than ever before and the tools for the job need to reflect that.”
Mr Davies added: “It was a great pleasure to talk to Ian, who is one of the newest recruits and has been delivering mail to customers in Chepstow for just a year.
“I really enjoyed going out on his round and meeting some of the town’s business owners who rely on Royal Mail.
“I wanted to get a better understanding of the work that goes into delivering mail on a daily basis, come rain or shine. Postmen and women perform a vital service and are much appreciated in the community. I certainly thank them for the great job they do.”
Royal Mail is transforming its operation, which means every part of the process from collecting, transporting, sorting and delivering mail is being improved to further increase efficiency.