New Remembrance stamps launched by Royal Mail in honour of armed forces
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Designs commemorate various parts of the military including the 110th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme
Captivating stamps with poignant designs have been released to honour the armed forces.
Royal Mail has released its special set of Remembrance stamps, which honours the sacrifice of those that fell during the First World War and other conflicts. They will be issued on Armistice Day, November 11.
This year marks 110 years since the Battle of the Somme, which began on July 1, 1916, and became one of the defining battles of the First World War. The six stamps feature specially commissioned artworks by British artist Matthew Cook, reflecting different aspects of Remembrance.
Each has been painted using a colour palette inspired by the red poppy, one of the most enduring and recognisable symbols of remembrance. Designs include someone saluting an RAF flypast, a Royal Marines bugler performing at the Cenotaph, a First World War soldier looking over a cross, wreaths being laid at Tyne Cot Cemetery, Second World War soldiers and wreaths being laid at a village war memorial.
Artist Matthew Cook said: “Remembrance has a very special place in my life, having served as a reservist in the Parachute Regiment and The Rifles and been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. I was delighted to be asked to illustrate these stamps and to take on the challenge of such a sensitive and significant subject. It is always a privilege to illustrate stamps for Royal Mail, and this project felt particularly special.”
David Gold at Royal Mail added: “Remembrance holds a profound place in our national life. Through these stamps, we pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of those who have served our country through two world wars, and many other conflicts. Matthew Cook’s poignant artworks provide a fitting and powerful way to reflect on the sacrifices made by so many courageous men and women across the generations.”
The stamps can be pre-ordered via the Royal Mail website, or by calling 03457 641 641. A Presentation Pack including all six stamps is priced at £11.70. The stamps go on general sale from November 11.