THE DESIGNER behind Birkenhead’s rare ‘Penfold’ post box has been recognised as one of the greatest surveyors in 150 years.

The ‘Penfold’ box on Ashville Road was designed by John Wornham Penfold, a leading architect and founding member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) from Surrey.

Mr Penfold's design was commissioned by the Post Office in 1866.

Adorned with acanthus leaves, balls and the royal coat of arms, the British hexagonal post box became the standard model for letter boxes.

The first Penfold box erected in Bothergate, Carlisle in 1853 however this no longer exists and the site is now marked with a plaque.

The Penfold post box in Birkenhead is one of just 20 in existence in Britain today and are now protected under Grade II listed buildings.

Admiration for this style of post box was characterised in cartoon series Danger Mouse - the crime-fighter's side-kick was named Penfold and their hide-out was a letter box.

As part of its 150th anniversary this year, RICS is recognising and celebrating the most influential surveyors from over the last 150 years in its 'Pride in the Profession' campaign.

Current RICS members nominated John Wornham Penfold to be celebrated as part of the initiative and in recognition of his achievements, a replica Penfold post box is currently on display at a unique exhibition at their headquarters in London.

RICS Chief executive Sean Tompkins said: “The Pride in the Profession initiative is about celebrating the remarkable contribution surveyors have had, and continue to have on society.

"John Wornham Penfold’s work as a leading surveyor of his time, his contribution to the RICS and the historic design of the Penfold box stand him out as a great surveyor worthy of recognition.

"Examples like John Wornham Penfold’s serve to remind us what a varied and rewarding career surveying can be.”