May your days be merry... and write
Don’t forget your letter to Father Christmas
AGIANT tree has appeared in the supermarket foyer counting down ‘sleeps’, people are going gaga for this year’s top toys and festive films are showing at the cinema.
As Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas would say... “Another bloomin’ Christmas”.
While it may still be a little early to deck the halls, one tradition I do look forward to is finding out what our Christmas stamps are going to be. I don’t go in for philately (stamp collecting) on a regular basis, but I am a fan of illustration and I like the way each year’s artist tackles the challenge. Imagine your tiny piece of art being seen by millions.
Royal Mail first produced Christmas stamps in 1966. The Post Office held a design competition for children which was won by six-year-olds Tasveer Shemza and James Berry. Tasveer created a colourful king and James’ design featured a snowman.
More than 17 billion Christmas stamps have been printed since, featuring scenes depicted in watercolour, stained glass, photography, paper craft and even plasticine. This year’s stamps, designed by Andrew Davidson, pay tribute to red post boxes.
Don’t forget to save one of your stamps for your letter to Santa. The Post Office says that, if you’re writing to the big man this year, post it by December 7 to: Father Christmas Santa’s Grotto Reindeerland XM4 5HQ
The Post Office advises: “Father Christmas is very busy at this time of year and he can’t guarantee that he’ll send a reply, but he’ll do his best if you include your full name, address and postcode.”