The British Science-Fiction War Relief Society or BSFWRS was created by John Cunningham of Texas in August 1941 to supply works of science fiction to British fans during the Second World War. Julian Parr and Edwin Macdonald were respectively English and Scottish representatives until they were called up. Bob Gibson, a Canadian fan stationed in the UK also played a role. Jack Gibson later became UK representative and after the BSFWRS had ceased in August 1944 he brought the collection into the British Fantasy Society as part of their library.
From Fancyclopedia 1, ca. 1944
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British Science-Fiction War Relief Society. Because of war conditions British fans for the most part were unable to get American pro mags. John Cunningham set up an agency by this name to receive contributions of cash or magazines, and mail bundles of them to the Anglofans. Some of the British Second Fandom thot they were better off for not having the American pros, but others commended the project. Cunningham's style of writing did not inspire respect among the American fans, but the bureau continued to function until Cunningham went into the army, and unorganized activities of the same sort were carried out by others.
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