Guernsey Post announces that it will release stamps depicting some of the Bailiwick’s Bridges & Causeways, in-keeping with this year’s postal theme ‘Bridges’, which is set by PostEurop, the trade association which represents the interests of European public postal operators (stamp issue date: 2 May 2018).
Bridget Yabsley, head of philatelic at Guernsey Post, explained: - “Guernsey’s tidal range of 33 feet is one of the world’s largest, so its causeways and bridges play a vital role in providing access around the islands, as well as to local landmarks. This year’s ‘Bridges’ theme provides the ideal opportunity to depict the beauty of the Bailiwick of Guernsey; two of our stamps – iconic Castle Cornet’s breakwater and Reservoir bridge – bear the Europa logo, which remain popular among collectors from Europe and beyond.”
The stamps: -
46 pence: - With a fascinating and varied history, Lihou, along with the nearby L'Eree headland, were designated as Guernsey's first RAMSAR wetland site. The walk across the causeway from Guernsey to Lihou provides an opportunity to explore the interesting wildlife, both above and below the water.
62 pence: - Castle Cornet provides a fascinating insight into hundreds of years of island history. The castle’s imposing outer walls are linked to St Peter Port by a breakwater built in the 19th century. It has seen many battles and was occupied by a German garrison during WWII.
63 pence: - Fort Clonque is a remarkable 19th century coastal fortress in Alderney that was built to protect the Channel Islands from capture when French naval power was becoming an increasing concern to the British. It is reached by a spectacular causeway leading to a drawbridge.
76 pence: - St Saviour’s Reservoir and bridge are found in Guernsey’s rural interior, the reservoir being an important area due to the freshwater and woodland habitat it provides for local wildlife. The Millennium Walk provides a scenic 3km long nature trail around the reservoir.
85 pence: - Fort Grey stood guard over Guernsey during the nineteenth-century and provided protection from French invasion. A walk across the causeway and up the flight of steps is rewarded not only with a magnificent view, but also a huge eighteenth-century anchor recovered from St Peter Port Harbour.
94 pence: - La Coupée is an 80 metre high natural peninsula, which links Big Sark and Little Sark. It is gradually being eroded, which will eventually result in Little Sark becoming an island.
The stamps and related products are available to pre-order from 17 April by visiting www.guernseystamps.com or contacting Philatelic customer services on +44 (0) 1481 716486.