50 Years of Britain in Bloom SEPAC

For immediate release – 29 May 2014  

A series of stamps has been issued by Guernsey Post to mark the 50th anniversary of Britain in Bloom, one of the largest horticultural campaigns in Europe (issue date 28 May 2014).

The images depicted across the six stamps showcase some of the Bailiwick of Guernsey’s recent Gold Award winners, which have been captured by world renowned clematis nurseryman and breeder, Raymond Evison OBE VMH, who lives on the island.

In 2013, Guernsey's St Peter Port "The Town" (depicted on the GY and INT letter 40g stamps) won its first Gold Award from the local judges, whilst the tiny neighbouring island of Herm (GY Large Letter and UK Letter) also won a Gold award in the prestigious Champion of Champions category.

Two parishes in the Bailiwick also feature – St Martin’s, whose Britain in Bloom team has won numerous Gold awards over the years (UK Large letter), together with St Pierre du Bois (INT letter 20g), whose national Gold award winning team has shown what can be achieved through restoration and community work on church land.

Raymond Evison commented: - “Britain in Bloom awards are given out in recognition of innovative environmental practices, such as efforts to help native wildlife; efforts to educate young people in horticulture; for engaging with businesses and for strengthening communities.”

Dawn Gallienne, head of philatelic at Guernsey Post, said: - “The Bailiwick has enjoyed huge success at the Britain in Bloom Awards over the years, so we are really pleased to feature some of the award-winning projects found in Guernsey and neighbouring Herm on these beautiful stamps – perfect for spring and summer time.”

-End release-

Press enquiries to:

Dawn Gallienne, head of philatelic at Guernsey Post, 01481 733524

Notes to editors: -

    Throughout the last five decades Britain in Bloom has been part of the UK’s cultural and horticultural landscape, inspiring millions of people. The campaign involves over 300,000 volunteers across the UK who donate over 4.4 million hours to projects which benefit the wider community.
    The RHS became the organising body for Britain in Bloom in 2001. The charity, along with the 16 “in Bloom” Regions and Nations, has introduced a number of developments.  One of these was the launch of the Champion of Champions category in 2006, which recognises sustained high achievers at the UK finals level.

 

SPECIFICATION

Date of issue: 28 May 2014
Designer: Andrew Robinson
Photographer: Raymond Evison OBE VMH
Printer: BDT International
Values: GY Letter, GY Large Letter, UK Letter, INT Letter 20g, UK Large Letter, INT Letter 40g
Process: Offshet Lithography
Stamp sizes: 27.94mm deep x 44.45mm wide
Paper: 110gsm unwatermarked / PVA Adhesive
Perforation: 13.75
Sheet: 10
Cylinder: A