Royal Mail has revealed images of five stamps being issued to celebrate Christmas 2024 – as well as the artist from Cornwall who is behind them.

The stamps feature some of the UK’s most impressive cathedrals - in Edinburgh, Liverpool, Armagh, Bangor and Westminster – all set in a snowy backdrop.

The stamps were designed by Penzance-based illustrator Judy Joel, whose popular paintings have been sold worldwide over the last 50 years.

Specialising in commissions of ‘life stories’, weddings, houses, and gardens, Judy also enjoys painting local Cornish scenes and scenes of her favourite pastimes and fondly remembered places.

Judy always includes her white-haired mum and a dog in every painting.

The full selection of images (Image: Judy Joel/Royal Mail) Speaking about being asked to illustrate the stamps, Judy said: “The phone call inviting me to submit sketches of two cathedrals for possible acceptance by Royal Mail, to have my designs used for the Christmas 2024 stamps, came on a hot day in early summer 2023.

“At first, I wondered if it was a cold call but soon realised it was genuine and I was immediately thrilled and very excited and got to work immediately.

“Later on, when I was told Royal Mail had chosen my designs in my naive style for this Christmas, it was a heart stopping moment and I was, and am still, immensely proud and honoured.”

Judy described the commission as 'a heart-stopping moment' (Image: Judy Joel/Royal Mail) Royal Mail has also explained more about the thinking behind this year’s choice of theme for the stamps, describing cathedrals as “wonderful and welcoming places to visit at Christmas.”

David Gold, director of external affairs and policy, said: “Cathedrals are a hugely significant part of our cultural heritage and play an important role in local communities.

“They also offer space for peaceful reflection and a bit of an escape from the challenges of daily life, which can be especially important at Christmas.

“Judy’s beautiful illustrations really capture the joy of these iconic buildings. We hope they bring a little added joy to millions of people around the world in the weeks leading up to Christmas.”