Covid-19 Handstamp Withdrawal

(See Update 30 November 2021)

Alongside the issue of CILP Emergency Mail Service stamp issued on 23 April 2020, a new hand applied cachet came into use on all mail using CILP services. 

The design featured a stylised Covid-19 ‘Virus’ which has become so familiar in various designs on all media formats. 

The CILP has decided to withdraw the handstamp with effect from 30 November, 2021. It has been in constant use on all mail despatched from the CILP and on all orders purchased from our philatelic agent.

Collectors who have not obtained an example of this design are encouraged to do so before the end of November, by purchasing any CILP stamps form Alpha Thematics on Ebid UK.

New: Salute to Frontline Workers Stamp

 Salute Frontline Workers: 31 May 2021

May 31st saw the release of our 'Express' Salute to Frontline Workers stamp. This honours all workers who have helped us all over the last fourteen months, and continue to work during the Covid-19 pandemic. The stamp features multiple awards and medals which so many people deserve. 

CLP310521S

No first day covers or postcards issued for this stamp.

Stamps will be available to collectors from our usual agent at Alpha Thematics on Ebid UK, and periodically on eBay UK.

Postmaster

CILP 

Covid-19 'Virus' Handstamp (Cachet)

Alongside the issue of CILP Emergency Mail Service stamp on 23 April 2020, a new hand applied cachet came into use on all mail using CILP services. It will be used until trusted sources declare the emergency over and we all have had a vaccine shot!

The design is a stylised Covid-19 ‘Virus’ which has become so familiar in many forms to us on television, news programmes, health notices and social media. It measures approximately 21mm in diameter and will be applied to all mail in addition to normal date cancellations. Keep an eye open for an example!

CILP - Covid-19 'Virus' Handstamp

The production of the handstamp was a rough and ready process to get it prepared in time for simultaneous release with our Emergency Mail Service stamp. It was hand carved from a champagne cork and, I believe, conveys the right impression (pun intended) in these dire circumstances.

Although I have produced clean sharp cachets using digital means in the past, I prefer the manual application and involvement of producing handstamps that have a nostalgic ‘authentic’ look to them. It’s all part of the fun of running a local post!

Keep safe, keep well!

CILP

Postmaster