Darren Jones raised thousands of pounds for local charities

Bala postman Justin Hollins, Wrexham postman Darren Jones and Brecon postman Kevin James were chosen from 300 public nominations.

They will each be presented with a �500 cheque and a trophy at a ceremony in London on Monday.

Royal Mail said the competition enabled them to recognise "community spirit".

Mr Jones was chosen from the nominations for raising thousands of pounds from marathon running for local charities.

Kevin James (left) and Justin Hollins were nominated by locals

Mr James won the award for his efforts running his local rugby club, refereeing matches and looking after the junior club teams on Sundays.

And judges picked Mr Hollins from the nominations for rescuing a drowning man and his dog from a fast-flowing river.

Mr Hollins said of his rescue: "I saw the man floating with his face in the water - I managed to grab him and drag him to the bank. To be honest, I didn't think he would survive, his lips were blue."

Gareth Davies, director of Welsh affairs for Royal Mail, said: "Justin, Darren and Kevin have shown dedication and community spirit beyond the call of duty and they stand out as shining examples of what we call 'First Class' in Royal Mail.

"This is the second year we have run this competition and nominations have continued to come in from our customers, all keen to praise and commend the postmen and women whom they feel are part of their community.