Cornish piskies included in new set of Royal Mail stamps

The characters, known in Cornish folklore for leading travellers astray with their “pisky lights”, are part of an eight-stamp set celebrating mythical creatures and legendary figures from UK folklore.

The other creatures and figures included in the set are Beowulf and Grendel, Blodeuwedd, the Loch Ness Monster, Fionn mac Cumhaill, Black Shuck, a grindylow, and a selkie.

The images were illustrated by London-based artist Adam Simpson, whose work has been shortlisted for a British Design Award.

The Cornish Piskies stamp design (Image: Royal Mail) David Gold, director of external affairs and policy at Royal Mail, said: “For some parts of the UK, local myths and legends are as much a part of their identity as the local landmarks and architecture.

“These beautifully illustrated stamps celebrate a fascinating aspect of British culture and custom.”

Every corner of the United Kingdom is steeped in its unique folktales, myths, and legends, offering “fascinating insights into the shared cultural imagination”.

Beowulf, Fionn mac Cumhaill, and Blodeuwedd each have their own stories of heroism, wit, love, and betrayal.

The Cornish piskies, however, are known for their mischief, causing people to lose household items and wander off course.

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Cautionary tales are also represented in the form of grindylows and Black Shuck.

The grindylows are said to lurk in the rivers and ponds of Lancashire and Yorkshire, dragging curious children to their deaths.

The spectral hound, Black Shuck, prowls East Anglia, a harbinger of death and destruction.

The set would not be complete without the Loch Ness Monster, an iconic figure that personifies primal fear of the unknown.

These tales, with their deeper meanings and values, continue to inspire and offer a glimpse into the collective psyche of the United Kingdom.

The stamps, along with a range of collectable products, are available for pre-order from March 20 at royalmail.com/myths and by telephone on 03457 641 641.

A presentation pack including all eight stamps is priced at £14.10.

The stamps will go on general sale from March 27.

For more than 50 years, Royal Mail’s Special Stamp programme has commemorated anniversaries and celebrated events relevant to UK heritage and life.