WARM tributes have been paid to a popular Yate postie who served the area for over three decades.

Sandra Griffiths, who died on March 24 aged 74 from cancer, worked for 32 years at the Royal Mail and post office around the Yate area. 

Sandra was a much-loved wife to Dave, mum to Mark and Debbie and had several grandchildren.

Born in Chipping Sodbury where Sandra grew up and went to school, she moved to Yate with husband Dave when they bought their first family home together.

The couple – who met when they both worked at Tesco – would have been celebrating their 48th wedding anniversary on the day of her funeral next week.

Her family, who say they have been grateful for the over 130 messages they have received of condolences, have now paid a warm tribute to Sandra. 

Gazette Series: WARM tributes have been paid to a popular Yate postie who served the area for over three decadesGrandson Liam said: “Granny was modern, current, fashionable and tasteful.

“She was always interested in us and what we were up to in our lives.

“I’m 30, so I had the very best of her and I will forever be grateful for that I got to see her in her best years. 

"She has Royal Mail service awards too!

"To my Grampy, she served her community for so long and her life was taken before her time, before their plans for more life!”

Debbie, Sandra’s daughter, said: “My mum was a caring and non-judgemental person.

“You wouldn’t find anyone who would not agree and could say a negative thing about her. 

“Illness can be cruel and this just wasn’t fair for her life to come to end when it did.

“She was a fantastic mum, and I will miss her every single day.

“We will make sure everything is okay and we will meet again soon.“

Son Mark said: “After five years of Mum having different jobs, she joined the Royal Mail in 1981 with a 4am start six days a week. 

“She delivered in all winds and weathers, all over Yate and the local extended area.

“She once fell on the ice and broke her wrist.

“She was taken to Frenchay hospital and took the bag of post with her!

“She then came back with the plasters and finished the round that day!

“My mum also had a run in with a dog where she was chased and had injuries from it, including bruises all over her back.

“She still went on and finished her rounds!

“My mum finished at the post office in 2013 after 32 years of service. 

“Her time at the Royal Mail and post office are something that could never be repeated.

“She really enjoyed her job and the service she dedicated to one place.”

Sandra is being buried at St John the Baptist Church, Chipping Sodbury.

This is at 1pm on Wednesday, April 17 which would have been her and her husband’s 48th wedding anniversary.

After this the family will be celebrating Sandra’s life at Yate Community Centre, 100 Station Road.