I do that , i live in a small village and all the old people say it too. Cheers me up!, not sure why perhaps it shows that the country isn't as bad as we all think and that some people are still polite and friendly.
I always say morning to people. Some look positivly terrified, but that might have something to do with the speedos and cowboy boots i don on sunday mornings........
Yep another country lad here. I thought it was faily standard business until I tried it out of the village and got a few odd looks. I often have a chat with ladders by when I am out on the drive spannering.