Description

The British Forces Philatelic Bureau has produced a special commemorative cover to celebrate the The Red Arrows 50ᵗʰ Display Season. The Team’s opening season was in 1965. As is tradition, it is the number of display seasons being marked in 2014, rather than the Team’s anniversary or formation.

The cover has three versions, two of these are numbered limited editions, including one signed by the nine pilots. The main image is action-packed and shows the Red Arrows flying in close formation.  A red 1ˢᵗ class stamp will be cancelled by a unique BFPS numbered handstamp. Each cover comes complete with an A4 information sheet about the Team.

Squadron Leader Ruth Shackleton, Team Manager Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, said “I would like to congratulate the British Forces Philatelic Service for creating such a unique and memorable item, which I am sure will hold much appeal for both collectors and supporters of the Armed Forces community alike, giving them the opportunity to own a piece of history. The money raised from the sale of the covers will help to continue the vital work of the RAFBF and other Service charities and The Red Arrows are delighted to support BFPS in this project.”

The covers may be purchased from the BFPS online shop (www.bfps.org.uk/shop) and cost £6 for the standard commemorative cover, £12 for the flown numbered limited edition and £24 for the flown and pilot-signed numbered limited edition. They are available now to order on a strictly first-come-first-served basis. The covers are also available by post by sending a cheque (payable to ‘BFPS CIC’) to BFPS The Old Post Office Links Place Elie Fife KY9 1AX (all prices include UK/BFPO p&p).