Call for stamp to honour Arctic hero

A call is being made for a stamp to be issued to honour one of the greatest Arctic explorers of all time.

Orcadian John Rae, born 200 years ago, solved the two greatest mysteries of 19th century Arctic exploration — he found the vital link for a Northwest Passage and he discovered the fate of the Franklin expedition.

Now a petition has been launched by Orkney International Science Festival, whose programme next month features talks and exhibitions on Rae and the Arctic. It asks the minister responsible for the Post Office, Jo Swinson MP, to consider a special stamp to commemorate Rae.