When and why did you start collecting C.I. stamps/postal history?
Early in 1964 I read an article by Bill Newport in his weekly column in the Daily Telegraph regarding a forthcoming set of Herm “stamps” overprinted ‘WORLD REFUGEE YEAR 1964’. This reminded me of many happy hours exploring this lovely little island. I was brought up by my grandparents who lived in London, but as my grandfather was born in Guernsey, we visited his family every other year. On impulse I sent to Herm for a set of the overprints, and this started me on the long road of collecting the Islands’ stamps from the Occupation issues to the Regionals and then the Independence issues. These were followed by Occupation postal history and finally the Islands’ World War I postal history.
When did you join the CISS? What/Who introduced you to the CISS?
Later in 1964, again through an article about the CISS in The Philatelic Magazine by Bill Newport.
What benefit have you got from your membership of the CISS?
I have gained so much knowledge of the interesting history of the Channel Islands through reading books and articles in the Society’s Journal. Meeting and talking to members, viewing their displays, and just enjoying the company, fellowship, and friendship of these members over many years has given me so much pleasure and enjoyment.
What aspect of C.I. stamps/postal history do you collect?
The main part of my collection is now the First World War including postcards, but smaller collections of stamps and postcards include Island birds, transportation of mail throughout both Bailiwicks especially the smaller islands, coastal fortifications and finally horticulture and agriculture.
Do you have a favourite item or group of items in your C.I. collection?
Yes, especially covers from the front lines and military postcards.
Do you collect other non-C.I. stamps/postal history?
Worldwide bird stamps and covers, as well as covers from my family. I have also designed covers into which I have put notes pertaining to places and events my wife and I have visited during cruises and holidays throughout the world. These I have then sent back home to myself as a diary of that holiday.
What has the hobby of philately meant to you?
In the past Scouting was my main hobby, closely followed by philately, but since retiring both from that organisation and work, collecting has moved to the front with a period of being the CISS Chairman and now its President. I believe it is the detective work of tracing the history of a cover, its sender and receiver or a photo of a soldier that fascinates me most and that helps keep an active brain.
