New stamps get stuck into Liberation 70

Saturday 09 May 2015

A new set of stamps are going on sale next week that trace the important victories in Europe that led to the Island's Liberation 70 years ago.

The six stamps feature a series of graphic illustrations, each with a symbolic "V" for "Victory".

The issue is a collaboration between Hat-Trick Design and master engraver Norwegian artist Martin Mörck who created the Miniature Sheet showing a portrait of Sir Winston Churchill along with the powerful quote from his famous victory speech "..and our dear Channel Islands are also to be freed today"

Jersey Post’s Philatelic Production Co-ordinator Chris Elligott said: “The surrender of German forces in Europe on 8 May 1945 saw the war in Europe come to an end and the following day, the islands of Jersey and Guernsey were officially liberated.

“Liberation Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm by Islanders each year on 9 May and we felt it was important to commemorate such an important anniversary.

“We commissioned master engraver Martin Mörck to produce the hand engraved portrait based on an original photograph by acclaimed photographer Yousuf Karsh. A special intaglio print technique has been used which gives the sheet a unique, textured feel.”

Mr Mörck began the commission with a traditional line-drawing and said the portrait was the most difficult engraving he's done in his 40 year career.

You can see his original line drawing which has been signed and framed on display at Broad Street post office in St Helier.

The post offices in Broad Street and Rue des Pres will be closed on Saturday for Liberation Day but you can pick up the new stamps from all branches of Jersey Post from Monday.