THE KNEALE ARCHIVES

It's been quite a while since we noted a new philatelic issue of interest to Forteans, but I know many of our readers will be interested in a new set of stamps from the Isle of Man, commemorating the centenary of the birth of Nigel Kneale, creator of Professor Quatermass. The stamps show portraits of Kneale against background collages representing his books, films and TV dramas. 

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It is interesting to see that his little-known early collection of short stories Tomato Cain is depicted. The stories are based on his early life on the Isle of Man, and often build on the island's superstitions and legends. Another title featured is The Stone Tape a TV drama which created its own theory for paranormal phenomena, which now seems to be accepted as as an explanation in itself by many people. Further stamps depict Beasts; The Year of the Sex Olympics; 'Quatermass' dramas (1953-2005) and Kneale's appearance as an actor in The Taming of the Shrew at Stratford in 1948. 

Not depicted is Kneale's only attempt at a TV sitcom, Kinvig, which was based around a group of UFO enthusiasts in a small town. Critics were lukewarm, the series was dismissed by both ufologists and science-fiction fans, and was "notable for its contemptuous treatment of the leading characters."

All six stamps are available individually, and as as a miniature sheet.

The full details of the issue are on the Isle of Man Post Office website:

https://www.iompost.com/stamps-coins/collection/the-kneale-archives/