The stamp set ‘Malta Buses - End of an Era' was one of the five postage stamp sets that won the "Best Theme Award" at the 11th China Annual Best Foreign Stamp Poll held in Beijing, China on 23 November 2012. H.E. Dr Joseph Cassar, Ambassador of Malta to the People's Republic of China, received the award on MaltaPost's behalf.

The poll was organised by the Chinese National Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries. The purpose of the poll, which involves more than 40 countries, is to enhance the relationship between China and foreign countries.

The Organising Committee of this Stamp Poll announced that selection for the awards in the different categories was limited to stamps issued in 2011. Postal Authorities from 38 countries contested in this Poll by submitting stamp sets and souvenir sheets while more than 33,000 philatelists participated in the poll casting their vote online or through the mail.

"It is an honour for MaltaPost to receive this prestigious award" said Mary Grace Simpson Head - Philatelic Bureau "The set ‘Malta Buses - The End of an Era' is one of the most beautiful stamp sets issued by MaltaPost, and was much appreciated by local and foreign collectors alike".

The philatelic commemorative set of 20 stamps entitled Malta Buses - "The End of an Era" was issued on 2 July 2011 to mark the withdrawal from service of Malta's iconic buses. The stamps are reproductions of original artworks by local artist Cedric Galea Pirotta who was commissioned to paint 20 of the most popular buses covering the principal routes throughout Malta and Gozo.

Orders for Maximum cards and prints related with the stamp issue ‘Malta Buses - The End of an Era', may be placed online at maltaphilately.com or by mail from the Philatelic Bureau, MaltaPost p.l.c. 305, Triq Ħal Qormi, Marsa MTP 1001;Telephone: 25961740, e-mail: info@maltaphilately.com.

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