Telegraph boy

They were expected to behave in a manner befitting one who wore the uniform of the Queen, and were required to complete a daily drill.

Rules included specifications on appearance, dictating that messengers must keep themselves clean and their hair short, and be courteous whenever speaking to anyone.

The rulebook also sought to control their behavior, forbidding messenger boys from sliding down staircase handrails; from smoking, gambling, or playing cards while in uniform; and from entering public houses except to deliver messages.

British Telecom announced on 19 October 1981 that the telegram would be discontinued,[2] and it was finally taken out of service on 30 September 1982 after 139 years in the United Kingdom.

[3] Messages were dictated over the telephone or sent via telex, printed, and delivered overnight by first class post in a distinctive envelope guaranteed for next day delivery, rather than by messenger.