Royal Mail celebrates myths and legends with special set of stamps

Royal Mail has revealed images of eight striking illustrations capturing the spirit of well-known mythical creatures and legendary figures of folklore.

The images feature: Beowulf and Grendel, Blodeuwedd, the Loch Ness Monster, Cornish piskies, Fionn mac Cumhaill, Black Shuck, a grindylow and a selkie.The stamps were illustrated by London-based artist Adam Simpson. Simpson’s work has been shortlisted for a British Design Award and he was included in the Art Directors Club Young Guns awards.

David Gold, Director of External Affairs and Policy, 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.”

The landscape of the United Kingdom resounds with folktales, myths and legends. Each region has its own unique stories, creating a tapestry of tales passed down over centuries that offers fascinating insights into the shared cultural imagination.

The Old English poem Beowulf recounts how the eponymous hero defended the Danish King Hrothgar’s mead hall, vanquishing the monstrous Grendel.

Across the sea, Northern Ireland’s heroic tale of Fionn mac Cumhaill explains how he built the Giant’s Causeway, outwitting a Scottish giant with strength and cunning.

Myths such as the Welsh story of Blodeuwedd, conjured from flowers and destined to wed an unwanted suitor, illustrate the complexities of human emotions and behaviour, including love and betrayal.

In Orkney and Shetland, selkies shed their seal skins to take human form. Exploring loss and longing, these folktales often recount how selkies eventually leave their human mates, succumbing to their yearning for the sea.

Some stories tackle human foibles, such as temptation and forgetfulness. The piskies of Cornwall are blamed for stealing household items and leading travellers astray with their pisky lights.

Cautionary tales often warn of grave dangers.

Grindylows are sprites with long arms who lurk in the rivers and ponds of Lancashire and Yorkshire, waiting to drag curious children to their deaths.

Black Shuck, a spectral hound with fiery eyes, stalks the countryside of East Anglia, foretelling death and destruction.

One of the most famous legendary creatures in the world, the Scottish Loch Ness Monster taps into the primal fear of the unknown. This long-necked, humped beast snakes through the depths, a remnant of our ancient past that still waits for us in the deep.

Exploring the mythical creatures and legendary figures of folklore entails uncovering not only intriguing stories but also the deeper meanings and values they convey. These tales continue to captivate and inspire, offering a fascinating window into the collective psyche of the United Kingdom.

The stamps, and a range of collectible products, are available to pre-order now at www.royalmail.com/myths and by telephone on 03457 641 641. A Presentation Pack including all eight stamps is priced at £14.10.

The stamps go on general sale from 27 March.