Postman dies trying to free van from snow in East Anstey near Exmoor

A postman collapsed and died on his round as he battled to free his van after it became stuck in a snowdrift, near East Anstey, it was reported last night.

John Bircham, of Dulverton, Somerset, suffered a suspected heart attack as he fought through snow on Saturday, a Royal Mail source said.

Exmoor was one of the worst hit areas as snow caused huge drifts.

Royal Mail manager Ian Frankum, said Mr Bircham had been a postman for 24 years and worked at Dulverton.

"He was a valued member of staff. He will be sorely missed."