Postman Pat has a TV series, DVDs and now a live show. Has fame gone to his head, asks Katherine MacAlister.

When the curtain goes up on Sunday at the New Theatre, Postman Pat will be there with all his friends, and of course his black and white cat. Because Postman Pat is on a Very Royal Mission. He has been promoted to Head of the SDS (Special Delivery Service) and is preparing for a very royal visit. So what could possibly go wrong?

“Well… just as everything is prepared, a storm hits, throwing the royal visit into doubt. Only one man can be counted on – the Head of the Special Delivery Service....oh that’s me!...with a little help from my trusty sidekick Jess of course. And my new SDS Helicopter,” Pat tells me. “My mission is to deliver after all.

“Whether it’s a package, a runaway cow or a smile to a young fan’s face! No mission is too big.”

That’s all well and good, but with so much work to do, doesn’t that mean that Pat’s neglecting his domestic life? “Well, I’m also lucky to have a supportive family and the whole communities of Greendale and Pencaster behind me – and I wouldn’t be able to do it without Jess of course, he keeps me in check,” Pat says.

So who’s the show aimed at then? “All Pat fans!” Pat says proudly. “The show is primarily aimed at little boys and girls but there's lots of fun to be had by older siblings, parents and grandparents too.

“And I love touring as it gives me the chance to see all of my young fans...and the mums and dads too. It’s brilliant to see families enjoying themselves...I also love the catering, but need to be careful. It’s easy to pile on the pounds when I’m not doing my rounds every day!”

So who’s taking care of the post in Greendale and Pencaster while he’s away? “Don’t worry! The post is under control, but I do of course have my SDS helicopter so I’m at hand to nip back for any super urgent Special Delivery Service Missions and still make it back in time for the performance,” Pat reassures me.

So, any backstage gossip or diva behaviour on tour? “Ha! No, not at all...unless you call requesting a nice Yorkshire brew and a custard cream at the end of a long day! Oh and a saucer of milk for Jess of course,” Pat laughs.

And with the big 30 looming next year, Pat’s keeping his feet on the ground. “It is indeed 30 years,” Pat agrees. “It’s gone by in a flash and I’ve enjoyed every moment so far. So here’s to the next 30 – Jess and I will probably be delivering in a spaceship by then!”

Postman Pat SDS – A Very Royal Mission is at the New Theatre Oxford on Sunday. 0844 847 1585 or newtheatreoxford.

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