Lytchett Minster: detail of a ?Nigerian? postbox
Introduction
The photograph on this page of Lytchett Minster: detail of a ?Nigerian? postbox by Chris Downer as part of the Geograph project.
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Lytchett Minster: detail of a ?Nigerian? postbox
Image: © Chris Downer Taken: 25 Dec 2014
A closer view of the postbox in the centre of the village (see Image). At first glance, it is an unremarkable Elizabeth II-reign box. However, this close-up reveals some detail that make it unusual. It is a lighter version of the standard size pillar box, dating from around 1980 when the familiar Type K was introduced for this size. These were made mainly for export to countries such as Nigeria, hence being known as a 'Nigerian pattern' box. The three telltale signs are: 1 - most easily noticeable, the lack of fluting (ridged decoration) around the outside edge of the cap; 2 - the fact that the cap is cast as part of the body of the box, rather than separately; 3 - the wording NEXT COLLECTION is on a flat piece projecting from the circular profile of the box, rather than cast on the curved surface. There are approximately 300 Nigerian pattern pillar boxes installed in Britain, and only two (three until a few years ago) in Dorset.
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Image Location
Latitude
50.735609
Longitude
-2.057055