First-class glimpse into the past

IT is one of Europe’s best-preserved Neolithic villages, a time-capsule offering an insight into the arduous lives of those who lived there 4,000 years ago.

Now Skara Brae on Orkney is featured in a new set of eight stamps celebrating ancient Britain’s most inspiring artefacts and atmospheric sites. Collectors who want to make the stamp extra special can mail it from the post box at the old Post Office in Sandwick between today and January 21 to receive a unique commemorative postmark.

Other sites and objects featured in the set include the Drumbest horns, the Battersea Shield, the Avebury stone circles and the Star Carr headdress.

Illustrated by London-based artist Rebecca Strickson, the stamps have been designed as overlay illustrations showing how people lived at the sites or used the objects. They are available at post offices from today.