WALLYFORD’S popular former postmaster was officially welcomed back to the village as he opened what is believed to be its first Indian takeaway.

Pardeep Moudgil and his wife Aruna received a bouquet of flowers, chocolates and a card from Wallyford Community Council on behalf of their many friends locally last Friday.

Back in 2017, local residents said a fond farewell to Mr Moudgil, their popular postmaster of 30 years, as the community’s Post Office service moved to a new location.

He closed the doors of the Post Office at 132 Salters Road, which coincided with the launch of a new Post Office Local Service at the nearby Day-Today store at 136 Salters Road.

At that time, Mr Moudgil said he had no intention of leaving the village and planned to turn the former Post Office building at the top of Drummohr Avenue, which he owns, into an Indian takeaway.

His dream came true with the recent opening of Biji’s Kitchen. Biji translated from Punjabi means ‘mum’.

In a statement, the family said: “Thank you to everyone who has made our opening week a massive success. We’ve been so overwhelmed with the positive response and great feedback. Thank you for all the well wishes, cards, gifts, messages and phone calls – it’s great to be back in Wallyford!

“A huge shout out goes to our phenomenal kitchen, who have worked tirelessly to serve up our flavoursome dishes – long may it continue.”