Theatre impresario Sir Peter Saunders made his millions from The Mousetrap, which continues to be the world's longest-running stage production.

But few would have suspected that thousands of pounds of Sir Peter's fortune would be set aside after his death to the men who made deliveries to his home in The Bishops Avenue, East Finchley.

His former milkman, Eric Beechey, of Coningsby Drive, Potters Bar, was left £1,000 by the fun-loving theatre producer in his will, while postman James Burge, of Great North Road, East Finchley, was left £3,000 and 'the wish that he had made friends with my friendly dog Cassie'.

Sir Peter, who died aged 92 in February, was best known for his production of The Mousetrap, which has been running for more than 50 years, and was married to Katie Boyle, herself famous for presenting the Eurovision Song Contest.

Mr Beechey, who stopped delivering Sir Peter's pints in 1992, and now works at Kenwood House in Hampstead, said he was very surprised by the gift.

"It's a lovely thought," he said. "I was quite overwhelmed by it really. I knew Sir Peter Saunders for many years. I would see [him] on a daily basis and always passed the time of day. Sir Peter was a very nice man. He'd always speak to you. His wife is exactly the same.

"I was very sad to hear he died. He was a gentleman."

Sir Peter also left money to many of his friends and acquaintances, including his barber, vet, the wife of his former electrician and theatre critics.

Ms Boyle's agent, June Ford-Crush, said: "I know she was very pleased that he thought about so many people and she shall be carrying out all his wishes."