A WELL-respected couple are set to retire after nearly four decades of helping residents in the village post office. Vasant and Jyoti Thakrar have received their long-service certificate from Kelvedon Parish Council after 36 years at the Bhavani Store and Post Office. The couple, who ran the shop on Kelvedon High Street, are recognised throughout the community for the work they do and their commitment to the village. In a letter from Witham MP Priti Patel, the couple were described as being the “backbone” of neighbourhood life. Home Secretary Ms Patel said: “I write to congratulate you on your retirement after 36 years of running the Bhavani Store and Post Office in the Kelvedon High Street.