Well-known and respected Newport sub-postmistress, Barbara Harvey, has died at the age of 91.

Born and brought up in Newbridge, Barbara attended school in nearby Calbourne and later found work in Newport’s God’s Providence House Tea Rooms.

After courting husband to be, Alan, they married in 1953 and jointly went on to run Alan’s existing farmstead at Albany Farm on Forest Road, both equally relishing the strenuous but simple and rewarding way of life.

Successfully rearing pigs and chickens, while also tending to a small dairy herd, the couple were well known within the local farming community.

Sixteen years and two children later, the pair decided upon a career change and bought Upper St James’ Street Post Office in Newport, which they ran for more than 20 years alongside a thriving stationery and artists' materials shop.

Mrs Harvey loved the community and customer interaction, providing a friendly and trustworthy service, at the same time expanding both Post Office and retail operations.

A relocation to Nodgham Lane, Carisbrooke saw the fulfilment of her leisure time passion for gardening and upon retirement she devoted her time to her family and four grandchildren.

Mrs Harvey leaves behind a legacy of unwavering community and family support and old fashioned, honest endeavour.

She is survived by children Sue and Richard, and grandchildren Chris, Tom, Charlotte and Kate.