Thousands of pounds have been raised by a community that wishes to thank its milkman upon his retirement.

Mick Tutton MBE delivered milk, eggs and other groceries to the residents of 28 St Albans streets.

'Mick the Milk' undertook this task for over 40 years, until his milk float broke down beyond repair.

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However, Mick was not only a delivery man, and was seen as "the community’s unofficial security guard, social worker, football pundit and cheerleader" by residents.

He ran in the St Albans half-marathon for many years, raising thousands of pounds for charity.

Herts Advertiser: In 1999, Mick was awarded an MBE.In 1999, Mick was awarded an MBE. (Image: Charlotte Cooke)

In 1999, Mick was awarded his MBE in the Queen’s birthday honours list for his service to the community.

Despite years at the wheel if his milk float, he never learned to drive a car.

This meant that he often set out on foot, from his home in Welwyn Garden City, to pick up his electric float in the early hours of the morning.

                                                                                            

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A special event at The Portland Arms, on Saturday (July 8), saw £15,282 presented to Mick as a retirement gift, along with an electronic card signed by more than 100 residents.

Organiser Kate Crick, who lives in Gonnerston, said: “Mick has been an integral part of our community, working through the night in all weathers to deliver day in, day out to our doorsteps.

“But he was so much more than our milkman.

Herts Advertiser: An electronic card was signed by over 100 residents.An electronic card was signed by over 100 residents. (Image: Debbie Brennecke)

"He looked out for people, especially the elderly, and became a family friend to many of us. Our children have grown up knowing and loving him, and our dogs too.

"Mick always carried some doggie treats – they got so excited when they saw his float coming down the road.

“When we started this collection, we couldn’t have dreamed we would raise more than £15,000 for our dear friend Mick. 

“The huge size of the collection is testament to the love and regard in which Mick was held by the residents of the streets he served.”