An original illustration of Bangor Cathedral features on the Royal Mail's 2024 Christmas stamp.

The image of the cathedral is on the First Class Large stamp, part of the Christmas Special Stamps collection.

The 2024 Christmas stamps showcase some of the UK's most impressive cathedrals, with Bangor joining Edinburgh, Armagh, Liverpool, and Westminster in the set.

The stamps were illustrated by Judy Joel, a British artist based in Penzance, whose work has been sold worldwide over the past five decades.

The Bishop of Bardsey, the Right Reverend David Morris, said: "We are delighted that the Royal Mail has chosen Saint Deiniol’s Cathedral in Bangor to feature in their Christmas stamp collection.

"It really is a beautiful design and I look forward to receiving my first Christmas card with the Bangor Cathedral Royal Mail stamp.

"It is particularly significant for us as we prepare to celebrate 1,500 years since St Deiniol established a community in Bangor and founded the cathedral and city we see today.

"We hope the stamp will encourage visitors to the cathedral during our Christmas celebrations."

David Gold, director of external affairs and policy at Royal Mail, said: "We are delighted that Bangor Cathedral features on our First Class Large Christmas stamp.

"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."

Bangor Cathedral, also known as St Deiniol’s Cathedral, was established in AD 525 by St Deiniol, who set up a missionary community enclosed by a Bangor, or hazel fence.

The current cathedral, Norman in origin, was built by Gruffudd ap Cynan, King of Gwynedd, who was buried there in 1137.

The cathedral was repeatedly sacked by the English due to its association with the native princes of Wales and was heavily damaged in 1211 by King John’s invading army.

By the 19th century, the cathedral was in a poor state, prompting a significant rebuild and refurbishment by George Gilbert Scott.

The stamps, and a variety of collectable items, are available now and can be purchased at www.royalmail.com/christmas2024.

Alternatively, you can purchase them by phone on 03457 641 641 and they're also available at 7,000 UK Post Offices.

A presentation pack containing all five stamps is available for £10.35.