John O'Groats Postmistress Marks 30 Years At The Helm Of Her Post Office

Submitted by Post Office Press Office

8th March 2024

Postmistress Barbara Harper, known by her community as Fiona, has celebrated her 30 years' milestone at the helm of John O'Groats Post Office, which has been run by her family since 1881.

Fiona has been presented with her Post Office 30 Years' Long Service Award with thanks to Fiona and three generations of her family for their devoted service to their community.

In 1881, Fiona’s Great Grandfather, George Manson, became the Postmaster for John O’Groats. Her Grandfather, Hugh, then took over at the helm, followed by his wife, Fiona’s Grandmother, Isabella. Fiona’s Father, Alexander, was the Postmaster before
her.

Fiona’s Mother, Nellie Manson, still helps her to serve Post Office customers today.

The Manson family have lived in John O’Groats for many generations, which is why they wanted to take on the village Post Office.

Postmistress, Fiona Harper, said: "I have been part of this community all of my life and I like to help people. I personally know many of the people who come into the Post Office to be served, as well as tourists, who want to send picture postcards of John O’Goats with a John O’Groats handstamp.

"We managed to stay open throughout the pandemic to maintain vital services, which was very important as people wanted to stay local and people also wanted to see friendly, familiar faces.

"It was busy with people wanting to send parcels to people that they could not see, returning home shopping returns, pay bills and to do their banking on behalf of all the major high street banks - that is a crucial role as so many bank branches have closed."

The village is the northernmost point of mainland Great Britain. It is a popular destination for those wanting to visit this picturesque area, including those who have made the journey from Lands End at the southernmost point of mainland GB or the North Coast 500 route a scenic route around the north coast of Scotland.

Post Office Area Manager, Kerry Falconer, said: "Fiona, like her Father, Grandfather, Grandmother and Great Grandfather, has loyally served this John O’Groats community for many years. Fiona is a popular Postmistress who really cares about her community
and has served this community for three decades. I want to thank her for following the family tradition of running John O’Groats Post Office for more than 140 years during peacetime, wartime and the pandemic."