A stamp of approval - 'J' is for Jodrell

11 Oct 2011

The world-famous Jodrell Bank Observatory has been chosen to represent the letter 'J' in a new set of stamps featuring an A to Z of iconic landmarks from all four countries in the UK.

The Lovell Telescope on the new Jodrell Bank stamp

The stamp series is launched on 13th October with part one, a set of 12 First Class stamps from A to L. These stamps take a fresh look at some of the UK’s most famous sights; ranging from ancient through to modern, and from the mystical to the magnificent.

To represent the letter 'J', Royal Mail has included the giant Lovell Telescope at Jodrell Bank in Cheshire, part of The University of Manchester.

Since 1957 the Lovell Telescope at Jodrell Bank has been quietly probing the depths of space. Even now, it remains one of the biggest and most powerful radio telescopes in the world, spending most of its time investigating cosmic phenomena which were undreamed of when it was conceived.

Jodrell Bank is one of the UK’s most significant astronomy sites, as well as being a hugely-popular visitor attraction. Earlier this year, the new Discovery Centre was opened, allowing thousands more visitors to learn about the world-leading wok carried out there.

Dr Teresa Anderson, Director of The University of Manchester’s Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre said: "We are delighted that Jodrell Bank has been recognised as the iconic 'J' in the new Royal Mail 'A to Z of the UK' stamp issue.

“Jodrell Bank is a major UK landmark, and also carries out world-leading research in Astrophysics – which makes it a very special place."

Philip Parker, Royal Mail Stamps spokesperson, said: "Our A to Z stamps showcase some of the nation’s most famous features, celebrating areas across the UK that are enjoyed by millions of people. Not only are these places much-loved landmarks, they also reflect the variety of structures and sights which can be found across the UK."

"Jodrell Bank is a familiar feature of the Cheshire landscape and an internationally renowned landmark that makes for a wonderfully powerful image on a 1st Class stamp."