We recently visited the Ribble Steam Railway, Preston to view the ‘Mail by Rail’ exhibition that has been launched. Put together by the Association of British Philatelic Societies The 'Mail by Rail' Exhibition which was previously on show in Crewe features stamps, first day covers, letters and postcards with railway themes.
The displays also features how the railways carried letters overnight to many parts of the country and how people used this service. One such letter featured is addressed to Harold MacMillan before he became Prime Minister.
Opened by the Mayor Preston, Councillor Albert Richardson, who in his younger days was actually a fireman on British Rail, we were treated to a really interesting view of yesteryear and this is something to appeal to stamp collectors, not just steam enthusiasts.
My two youngsters found the exhibition engaging and they certainly learnt something new.
Following on from the opening of the exhibition we were treated to a trip along the steam railway hauled by a guest engine from the East Lancashire Light Railway.
This steam railway is a lovely attraction just by Preston Docks with views over the River Ribble and I would suggest you go and find out more. The exhibition is open for the summer 2011 season, and is a must for both rail enthusiasts and stamp collectors alike.
Tim Dixon
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