A ROYAL Mail manager from Barry has been sent the ultimate royal seal of approval - collecting an MBE in the New Year's Honours list!

Fellow managers nominated granddad-of-three Graham Underdown for his services to charitable fundraising, which have seen him raise awareness and funds for Barnardos, Guide Dogs for the Blind, the British Heart Foundation and Ty Hafan.

59-year-old Graham, originally from Kent, has also made 800 platelet donations via the Welsh Blood Service in Llantrisant.

He donated every three weeks - to the extent that family holidays have been scheduled around sessions.

His charitable endeavours include completing four London Marathons, 47 half marathons and cyclethons, as well as a long-distance walk, and he has been involved with his employer's community action team.

He moved to Barry when he married wife Jean, and joined the Royal Mail in 1986 - first working as a postman in the town and now employed as a manager in Pontyclun.

He is also known for his commitment to the Barry & District Darts League, playing for Barry RFC's Rugby Raiders team.

He was formerly secretary for the Rhoose & District Darts league, plays crib at the West End Club in Barry, and was membership secretary of Porthcawl Angling Society.

Graham, of Clos Cwm Barri, said he received Prime Minister David Cameron's letter in November and that, should he wish to accept, his name would be sent to the Queen – but he would have to remain tight-lipped until the official announcement.

"I was flabbergasted," he said.

"My mum is over the moon! She couldn't believe what she was hearing.

"I'm just glad I can help the charities, but an award was the last thing I thought I would get."

Graham will receive his honour at St James' Palace, in London.

Wife Jean said: "He's had me curtseying. I have been practising until I got it right!"

Royal Mail director of collections and delivery Wales region, Ian Edwards, said: "We are extremely proud of Graham.

"He is a shining example to all of us regarding his commitment to the community, and his fantastic efforts in raising thousands of pounds over the years for charities.

"His commitment to giving blood and platelets has also been exceptional and there is no more worthy recipient."

Director of the Welsh Blood Service, Dr Geoff Poole said Graham had been an inspiration to Welsh Blood Service staff and other donors since he started giving blood when he was 18.

Mr Poole said: "Having given a very commendable 37 pints of blood, he then became a platelet donor and has since given an astonishing 800 donations.

"Platelet donations take longer to collect but they are essential in the treatment of many diseases, for example leukaemia.

"Through his selfless commitment to helping others, Graham will undoubtedly have saved many lives, and many patients will applaud him in receiving this honour."

For details on donating blood, visit www.welsh-blood.org.uk