Looking for a good reason to dump e-mails and start writing letters again? The Shenzhen Stamps Collection Company might have something for you.

The company announced Tuesday a service, by which ordin ary Shenzhen residents can have their images printed on stamps, on the payment of 60 yuan (US$7.30).

The service will be provided by some Shenzhen post offices from April 21 to May 21, to celebrate the opening of the Second China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industry Fair, which will open on May 18.

A few locals expressed their interest in the service. Shu Chang, a white-collar employee, told the Shenzhen Daily that she was really excited about the idea. "I will surely go with my husband and make stamps unique to ourselves. It is a pity that the stamp can only have space for two persons. I really want my baby boy to appear on the stamp too," said Shu.

Guo Quan, in his 30s, said,"Previously, only those VIPs can have their images printed on stamps. Now common people also have the opportunity. I will surely make a few stamps for my son."

Every stamp will bear a face value of 0.80 yuan. For 60 yuan, the company will provide a set of 16 stamps ready for circulation.

The company said that those interested would have to present ID cards and personal photographs.

It will announce the locations of the participating post offices soon.

(Shenzhen Daily April 19, 2006)