[H3] "Retired but not expired" [.H2]

Falmouth milkman John Forster is set to retire this week following 40 years of service.

Popular community figure, John (Titch) Forster will be doing the rounds one last time this Friday, 12th February.

Having started his first round as a milkman for the co-op in Nuneaton at the age of 17 in the World Cup winning year of 1966, it wasn't until 1979 that John decided to move his wife and daughter down to the beautiful surroundings of Falmouth, Cornwall.

It didn't take long before he established himself with Roseville Dairy in Penryn, whom he worked for until 1987, when the round was then offered to him to work on as an independent dairyman running his own franchise.

Often seen with a spring in his step, John has raised money for local charities such as victim support and Cheshire care homes, having run four London marathons in under 4 hours during the 90's.

Having served the local community now for over 40 years, John has become a familiar face to many generations as he waves and toots in the early hours of the morning.

"I couldn't wish for a more lovely, cheery, reliable chap. John has delivered my milk for quite a few years now and he'll be sorely missed. Happy retirement John may it be a long and healthy one which you so deserve" - Estelle Johnson

Over the many years of servitude braving the Cornish elements, he has proved an integral link to the elderly, and on more than one occasion has been the first on the scene, when some have fallen within their own homes or have been unable to reach the outside world for valuable supplies.

[H3] John has gone above and beyond to deliver to his customers [.H2]

"John is a lovely chap, he kept an eye on mum when she started with the early signs of dementia, true community supporter." - Nigel Bennetts

In 2002 one customer nominated John and his family to be put forward to attend the Queens Summer garden party at Buckingham Palace for services to the community.

"John delivered milk to my aunty for many years, he always looked out for her, have a happy and healthy retirement John you deserve it." - Alison Congdon

Ten years later his daughter Sarah nominated him again and John was given the honour of being one of the Olympic 2012 torchbearers on the Falmouth leg of its tour around Britain.

"Happy retirement John you were there for my children growing up with fresh milk and the things I forgot, will miss our hellos..." - Debbie Eddy

In the last few years, John was one of the first to reintroduce glass bottles to his round as sustainable awareness become more prevalent through high profile advocates like David Attenborough on Blue Planet.

The last year itself has seen demand for home delivery rocket due to the covid pandemic.

[H3] Looking to retirement [.H2]

Asked what he is looking forward to the most, John added:

"Spending this Valentine's Day at home with my wife, while I am also looking forward to finally being able to take a holiday when the world allows."

John would like to thank all his customers over the years for the memories they have provided and would like to wish the Lillie Brother's much-continued success as they take over his round.

A Facebook page has been set up for those wishing to send a message or share memories, which you can visit here.

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