Post workers help track down forgotten football great

Postal workers in Merthyr Tydfil completed a 'mission impossible' task this month, when they were asked to track down a long-forgotten Welsh football star, and help complete a fan's autograph collection.

It was the wish of Brent Hicks, a taxi driver who lives on the Isle of Wight.

Mr Hicks longed for the signature of former Portsmouth favourite Derek Showers, even though he left the club more than 30 years ago.

All he knew was that Derek was Welsh, so he sent a letter addressed to 'Derek Showers (former Pompey player 1970s/80s) c/o The Royal Mail, Cardiff, South Wales.'

Within days post workers tracked down Derek at his home in Merthyr Tydfil, and delivered the autograph request.

Derek Weathers, who's now 62, began his career with Cardiff City and played twice for Wales. He also played 39 times for Portsmouth between 1979 and 80 - scoring eight goals.

A spokesperson for the Royal Mail said the company was 'delighted' the letter made it to its intended destination, and thanked the postal workers in Merthyr for their 'knowledge and effort.'