Collectors put their stamp on fundraising

Stamps are making a difference at a series of auctions run by Milton Keynes Philatelic Society, raising hundreds of pounds for charity.

Under the hammer at a series of stamp auctions throughout the year, stamp collectors in Milton Keynes have raised more than £900 for two city-based charities.

Members of Milton Keynes Philatelic Society are pictured after presenting cheques to the society’s two charities of the year for 2023-24: Milton Keynes Reader Service, which recruits volunteers to help the visually impaired with reading their post, bills, magazines and books and to join them on shopping trips, visits to the theatre, museums and evening classes.

“The service is a lifeline as many users live alone and do not always have family or anyone else to help them,” said Philatelic Society treasurer David Bown, who has been a volunteer with the service for 11 years.

The second charity to benefit is Harry’s Rainbow, set up to provide bereavement support to children and young adults who have lost a parent or sibling.

Stamp auctions at the society’s annual charity event and at member and club auction nights raised a total of £909.70 – a record amount. The lots have been donated by stamp dealers and the public.

This year’s auction proceeds will go to nominated charity for 2024-25 the Multiple Sclerosis Society.
The society welcomes donations of stamp collections large and small for auction at its regular Stamp Fairs. The next takes place on October 12, 10am-4pm, at The Methodist Hall in Queensway, Bletchley.

“The Stamp Fair is greatly enjoyed by members and collectors alike,” said Karen Goodger, Stamp Fair Organiser. “Many coming for the first time comment at the friendliness of the fair and join the Stamp Club as a result.”

The society runs regular events including speaker evenings, collection displays by society members and an annual competition night.
Find out more about the Milton Keynes Philatelic Society and next month’s Stamp Fair at miltonkeynesphilatelicsociety.co.uk or call 01908 521220.