David Stirling's passing in August 2006 left a void in our segment of philately. I am certain he will be missed by everyone that had the good fortune of corresponding with this extremely proud Scotsman, through the years. He was a good friend, generous with information and advice. I often contacted him about the early history of the Society and general local posts information.

David was the first who conceived the idea of forming the Local Post Collectors Society. He became its first President and humbly described himself as a co-founder rather than the architect that established the Society. He was considered by many as one of the world's foremost authority on world local posts and labels of every description.

His last e-mail to me dated June 25, 2006 had friendly words of encouragement concerning my health, little did he know that he was preparing to meet his creator. A sympathy card was sent to his family on behalf of the Society. The burning question on the mind of those who knew him or had dealings with him: What is going to happen to his gargantuan collection and surplus stamps.

We later learned from a notice in The Cinderella Philatelist, January 2007 issue that "Substantial parts of the collections of the late Davis Stirling will be offered by BONHAMS, Montpelier Street, London SW7 1HH - www.bonhams.com/stamps, in their auction of 4 April, 2007. A listing of the Cinderella lots will be posted to all CSC members in the UK. Overseas members should let Bonhams know of their interest"

Details of the results of the auction and its beneficiary are sketchy. Although it was published that the auction realized several thousand pounds. He is survived by a brother and a cousin.