Today we stopped for a chat with David Bailey of the Portobello Stamp Company, a long established trader at the market offering stamps, covers and vintage postcards

 
Q. How long have you trading at Portobello Market and & what attracted you open a stall in the area?

David: I started trading in arcades in 1994 – mainly because I was interested in stamps and I live just round the corner from the market; it made sense to put the two together. After a short break, I started trading on the street – first as a casual on Fridays, then on Saturdays on Westbourne Grove and since Spring this year as a permanent Friday trader. There’s nowhere like Portobello for atmosphere – and for the sheer diversity of people I meet on the stall.
 

 
Q. What kind of items could visitors expect to find from you?

David: I sell stamps and covers plus some vintage London postcards. With stamps, I have good coverage of GB from 1840 plus some Commonwealth, Europe and Middle East. I concentrate on quality items – Unmounted Mint or Very Fine Used and I usually have a few blocks and multiples as well.

 
Q. Do you have any advice or recommendations for first time Portobello Market visitors?

David: Make sure you come on Friday, Saturday or Sunday. There’s very little happening on other days of the week. The Friday market is quieter and more relaxed. But if you’re here on Saturday, do take time to explore the arcades. That’s where you’ll find an amazing variety of antiques and collectables plus some of Portobello’s most knowledgeable dealers. There are cafes, bars and restaurants to suit all tastes – but for my money the best pub in the area is the Churchill on Kensington Church Street. Good value Thai food, brilliant service and atmosphere. It features on the ‘Welcome to London’ poster at the Eurostar terminal.