Why this particular part of the North East can’t be licked. Or can it?

Kielder Forest in Northumberland has been given the stamp of approval by the Royal Mail.

It features in a set of six special stamps of beautiful and inspirational views of forests across the UK.

The stamps mark the 100th anniversary of the Forestry Commission. Founded on September 1 1919, the Forestry Commission’s remit was to reforest the UK for timber after the First World War had seen clearances of huge areas for the war effort.

Kielder combines timber production with habitats for wildlife from ospreys and red squirrels to pine marten, and leisure pursuits including mountain bike trails and artworks.

The forest’s stamp debut comes as a report last week revealed that spending by tourists in Northumberland topped £1billion for the first time last year.

“I am delighted to see Kielder Forest featured in Royal Mail’s new six stamp collection celebrating the Forestry Commission’s centenary,” said Kevin May, forest management director for North England. “It is testament to the iconic nature and rich history of England’s largest working forest.

“Originally created to support the mining industry in the North East, Kielder Forest has, through careful management and stewardship by dedicated staff, evolved into a diverse forest supporting people, nature and the regional economy.

“Our forests can respond positively to some of the biggest issues facing us today, be that climate change or health and wellbeing challenges.

“I hope this centenary stamp collection inspires people across the nation to discover for themselves the beauty, tranquillity, nature and adventure on offer in all of our forests.”

Dennis Craig’s Northumberland forestry career included roles as a forest craftsperson, then a works supervisor, and now a recreation assistant at Kielder Castle.

He said: “I’ve worked for the Forestry Commission in Kielder Forest for almost 50 years, so it’s accurate to say that the forest has been a good part of my life and is in my blood. I feel honoured to have witnessed the progress here over the years, and to still be working here during the Forestry Commission’s centenary.

“It is great to see Kielder getting national recognition as part of Royal Mail’s new stamp collection.”

Simon Banks, a works supervisor who has worked all of his life in Kielder Forest, said: “There’s no wifi in the forest, but I promise you’ll find a better connection. Kielder is a really dramatic and beautiful place to be.”

And Kielder East forester Jon Tompson said : “I’m really proud to be part of the Kielder Forest team during the Forestry Commission’s centenary year, and it’s great to see the forest represented in Royal Mail’s new stamp collection.

“A great many people have made the forest what it is today and, as a newcomer, I’m pleased to now pick up the baton and continue looking after Kielder East Beat, including Sidwood which is featured on the stamp.”

Royal Mail spokesman Philip Parker said: “On the Forestry Commission’s centenary these striking new stamps celebrate the beauty and tranquillity of our public woodlands, and the inspiring range of environments which receive hundreds of millions of visits each year.”

The stamps are on sale from www.royalmail.com/forests and in post offices.