Dr D. Gwynne Harries, FRPSL
Firstly, some personal thoughts…I am a bald, overweight old bloke with a beard who likes real ale, rugby, jazz and photography.
Following a 40+ year career in education, I have become increasingly involved with my lifelong love and interest in philately. A member of several specialist philatelic societies, I have helped in their running, organisation and representation in various capacities over the years. My eclectic range of collecting interests includes, KGV GB, France, Sudan, meter mail, Iran, Norway, QV surface printed, et al.
As a life-member and Fellow of the Royal Philatelic Society London and recipient of the society’s London Medal for services to the library, I serve on Council, (previously as Assistant Hon Sec.) and in addition to being Assistant Chair of the Collections committee, Publications Committee (assistant Chair) and the Crawford Medal Committee. I organise, edit and contribute book reviews for the London Philatelist and am also one of the West Midlands representatives for the Society. I regularly present at regional meetings and to local societies.
- I am also a member of:
Burton on Trent PS (30+ years)
Society of Postal Historians
Scandinavia PS (30+ years) – former journal editor now secretary
Sudan Study Group (10 years) – of which I am the current President
Iran Philatelic Study Circle (8 years)
France & Colonies PS (8 years)
Italy & Colonies PS (7 years)
Cuban PS of America
American Philatelic Society (19+ years)
- I maintain the websites for the Society of Postal Historians, Burton PS, Scandinavia PS, and the Sudan Study Group.
Post retirement and pre-pandemic, I worked part-time for a local philatelic auction house near my home and currently have similar work with a well-known London based company.
ABPS is the “voice of philately” in the UK and I see one of our challenges is to encourage more people to get active and involved in supporting and promoting our wonderful hobby. Established in 1955, our association plays a pivotal role in fostering the love for philately and promoting the exchange of philatelic knowledge. I also see one of the primary objectives of the ABPS as coordinating and supporting the efforts of its member societies. This involves facilitating communication among societies, sharing resources, and organising events that bring philatelists together. By doing so, the ABPS contributes to the growth and sustainability of philatelic pursuits throughout the UK.
The ABPS also plays a vital role in advocating for the interests of philatelists on a national level. By representing the collective voice of its member societies, the association engages with relevant authorities, institutions, and organisations to address issues that affect the philatelic community. Whether it be policy matters, preservation concerns, or promoting the cultural significance of philately, the ABPS acts as a unified force for the benefit of all collectors.
Also, the ABPS serves as a central hub for information exchange. Through publications, newsletters, and online platforms, the association keeps all members informed about the latest developments in the world of philately. I would like to think that this exchange of information not only enhances the knowledge base of collectors, but also fosters a sense of camaraderie among the diverse spectrum of individuals united by their love of philately.
The annual ABPS Philatelic Congress of Great Britain stands out as a highlight on the philatelic calendar. This flagship event brings together collectors, exhibitors, dealers, and experts from all over the country and many different parts of the world. The Congress serves as a melting pot of ideas and a showcase of impressive philatelic material. It embodies the spirit of collaboration and passion that defines the ABPS and its member societies. Full details about Congress are available in the “CONGRESS” section on this website
One thing I always stress is the importance of communication. Without good communication who knows what’s going on or what the current issues are in the hobby that need addressing? This is why I really want to hear from you; from federations, societies or individuals. What are your thoughts about where the hobby is and its future? What should we be doing? Please do let me know what you think. My email address is chair@abps.org.uk and the postal address is, Gwynne Harries, ABPS, c/o RPSL, 15 Abchurch Lane, London EC4N 7BW.
I really want to hear from you! In particular, please tell me what you think we are doing well, what we are doing less well or if there is anything that we are not doing that we should do. Thank you.