MOST people only do it once.

But it is third time lucky for Terry Dunn, who is retiring for the third time in 20 years.

The popular postmaster has been a familiar face at Sparsholt Village Shop for the last five years – taking the helm when it was taken over by the community after the former owners retired.

However, despite his passion for the job, the 71-year-old, who retired as a mechanical engineer in 1997 and again 12 years later in 2009, has said now is definitely the time to give up work for good.

He said: “I have always enjoyed working but the time has come to have a bit more ‘me time’.

“I have got to the point where I have one or two health problems and I am 72 next month. I just want to get away from regular commitment and have some more time to ourselves.”

The father-of-two, of Woodman Close, moved to Sparsholt ten years ago with his wife Jane.

But Mr Dunn likes to keep busy and also helps out with the Ham Green Volunteers, maintaining the village’s green space so has vowed to keep up his volunteering.

Of the shop he added: “I will miss it. It has been very interesting and quite challenging at times. We work hard every year just to break even. I have really enjoyed it and it is a great place to meet people.”

Caroline Horrill, one of the founders of the community shop, said he will be sorely missed. “The shop is a real asset and having a post office is really appreciated by everyone,” she said.

“Terry has the community at his heart. He is always keen to help people and has a great reputation with the villagers. He encouraged the use of the post office and other services.”

Victoria Williams, who works in the shop, said they are now taking applications to replace Terry after he leaves in December. To apply email a CV marked for the attention of Sue Fowler at sparsholtvs@googlemail.com.