Chris Buckman - Postmaster

I am very pleased to have been selected as the new PO Coordinator for Smarden Community Store and Post Office. My 35 years working for the post office, have been mainly at Tenterden, Ashford Crown Office, and Sittingbourne. I have held a range of PO positions such as Counter clerk; Customer Service Consultant, Express mails specialist, and Branch mentor. In all these, I have always enjoyed helping to train and inspire new colleagues.

With a dedicated team of volunteers, I intend to bring my many years of knowledge and experience to Smarden, with a focus on making this community project a great success. 

I live in Bethersden with my wife and two children, where I have been a member of the tennis club since the age of 12 and still play once a week. I also enjoy gardening and grow most of the vegetables we need. Some of you will know that I have a long-standing connection with Smarden. My mother was born and grew up in the village, and I have always felt part of the community, from my early years visiting relatives with my parents, and later frequenting the three local pubs! I’ve also driven a tractor in the annual bonfire parade for the last 25 years or more (But I’ve never been persuaded to dress up and stand on a float!)