The couple later learned that Mrs Ford, who was born in Motherwell, had family ties to the nearby town of Muirkirk.

The 57-year-old made the discovery after sorting through her late mother’s possessions, and researched her family tree after finding a pair of knitted gloves in the distinctive Sanquhar knitting pattern.

Mr Ford, who is from Lincolnshire and lived in Florida for two decades, said: “I was an avid stamp collector as a child and to discover that Mary’s ancestors were from the local area was fate.”

“Mary and I are very excited and humbled to be serving this community and we also look forward to welcoming tourists from both near and far who come to Sanquhar to sample the delights this vibrant community has to offer.

“I am also proud to be this Post Office’s 17th Postmaster, which isn’t that many considering its long history.”

The pair first bid to take over the branch three years ago, while they were still living in the US but looking to return to the UK.

They were beaten by another bid but were approached again earlier this year, having since moved back to Motherwell, after the previous deal fell through.