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First-class Lichfield licks its rivals

by Ed Beavan

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A SET of commemorative stamps to celebrate the “power and glory” of the great cathedrals of the UK was launched this week.

Lichfield, Belfast, Gloucester, St Davids, Westminster, St Magnus in Orkney, and St Paul’s Cathedral in London are the chosen seven for the set of eye-catching stamps.

The stamps, described by the Royal Mail as a “philatelic pilgrimage”, show the interiors of the cathedrals photographed in black and white, while a special full-colour four-stamp miniature sheet of St Paul’s Cathedral completes the set, marking the 300th anniversary of the completion of the London landmark.

Lichfield Cathedral, Britain’s only medieval cathedral with three spires, has been chosen as the image for the first-class stamp. Its Dean, the Very Revd Adrian Dorber, said he was delighted that the cathedral, which he described as an “undiscovered gem”, had been selected.

“It’s a stunning picture of the interior. Most people see cathedrals from the outside. They just know the skyline. But I think all these stamps draw you in, and Lichfield certainly has got plenty to see inside.” To mark its first-class appearance, the cathedral is organising free tours until 24 May.

Julietta Edgar, head of special stamps at Royal Mail, said that the reproduction on the stamps was “quite astonishing”.

“The interiors of these cathedrals have been captured on the stamps in breathtaking detail, which perfectly conveys the grandeur of these beautiful buildings.”


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The Church Times is able to offer 20 commemorative sets, each worth £6.30, to its readers. To enter, send your name and address, to arrive by 23 May, to

Stamps,
Church Times,
13-17 Long Lane,
London EC1A 9PN

The names of the recipients will be announced 6 June.





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