World War One commemorative stamps to be released

A poppy commemorative stamps that will be issued. Credit: Royal Mail/PA Wire

A series of special stamps are to be published over the next five years by the Royal Mail to commemorate the First World War.

The Royal Mail had its own regiment in the Great War - the Post Office Rifles - which was formed in the 1860s to protect its buildings from attack, with 1,800 killed and 4,500 injured during the war.

William Tickle was also remembered.

In July, the first stamps will feature a painting of a poppy, lines from the poem 'For the Fallen', and a portrait of a 15-year-old soldier - Private William Tickle - who was killed at the Battle of the Somme in 1916.

One of the commemorative stamps being issued by the Royal Mail. Credit: Royal Mail/PA Wire

The series of stamps will mark the contribution of the armed services, the role of Commonwealth countries, non-combatants and women.

One of the commemorative stamps being issued by the Royal Mail. Credit: Royal Mail/PA Wire

Stephen Agar, from Royal Mail, said: "The Great War changed the course of world history in ways which are still being felt today. This is why we took the decision to produce 30 stamps over a five year period."

'At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember them'. Credit: Royal Mail/PA Wire

Helen Grant, minister for the First World War centenary, added: "The Royal Mail have a long and distinguished history of recording special events and anniversaries with commemorative stamps. I am delighted that they are marking the First World War centenary with five sets, across the period.