FPO S.P.501

[Chris Weddell]

Hello All,

            I have been going though some covers which have built up on my desk since before Christmas until now. I came across this one with an FPO S.P.501 dated cancel I have not come across before. Any help or information about this type of cancel and the location would be great.

                                            Cheers

                                              Chris .

[Michael Dobbs]

Chris

Chapter 17 in Proud's "History of British Army Postal Service Vol III - 1927-1963" lists and explains the SP series.
Also there is a reference to SP.501 in the article "The Fall of Singapore, February 1942" by Robin Startup (FPHS Journal 273 - Autumn 2007).

He explains that SP.501 was established in Singapore in September 1939.

I believe SP stands for Singapore.  I'm sure I have seen a further explanation somewhere as to why they start at 501 which came from Alistair Kennedy.  I feel sure it has to do with the Egypt Pre Paid series of E datestamps, but canniot be certain.

Regards, Mike  ;)

[Chris Weddell]

Mike,

      Thanks for your help. I will look up Robin Startup's article and I will also track down my Proud which I have mislaid again !!!!

                                      Cheers

                                      Chris  ;D