Every stamp could help save a life as volunteers call on public to get involved

EVERY STAMP COUNTS: Used postage stamps from around the world can be recycled to raise vital funds for bone cancer research

A Benfleet-based charity group is urging residents to keep donating used postage stamps throughout the year to help raise vital funds for the Bone Cancer Research Trust.

Friends of BCRT, run by local volunteer Terri Bush, has been collecting stamps from across the UK and around the world as part of its ongoing Postage Stamp Appeal.

Every stamp donated helps fund research into bone cancer, a disease that affects hundreds of people each year.

The group is asking people not to throw away stamps from letters and parcels, explaining that even old, used or obsolete stamps can be recycled to raise money.

Donations can include British and overseas postage stamps, horizon labels, Royal Mail parcel labels, postcards, first day covers and other philatelic items.

Unused and obsolete UK stamps can also be turned into funds.

Terri said the appeal relies on regular support from the public and businesses alike.

“We’re desperate to remind people that we need help all year round. Any amount of stamps, from anywhere in the world, really does make a difference.”

Friends of BCRT is also keen to hear from local businesses willing to act as drop-off points for stamp donations, with estate agents particularly encouraged to get involved due to available space.

Businesses can also support the appeal by joining the group’s Facebook page as supporters.

To help spread the word, the group runs a Facebook community, Friends of BCRT – Postage Stamp Appeal & More!, and has recently launched a new Instagram page, @itsthestamplady, where supporters can keep up with the latest updates.

Stamps can be sent directly to the charity’s recycling partner at:

BCRT (FOB) Stamp Recycling, PO Box 6198, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 9XT

Donors are asked to trim stamps with up to 1cm of paper around them and sort them into UK, pre-decimal or overseas categories.

As well as stamps, the group also collects unwanted or obsolete UK and overseas currency.

Anyone who would like to help or find out more can contact Terri Bush on 01268 565646 or email charitystampappeal@gmail.com

“Until there’s a cure, every little bit of support matters,” Terri added.