This year marks 500 years since Brian Tuke was knighted the first Master of the Posts and since Royal Mail was made an institution.

Sir Brian was the catalyst for Royal Mail as a public industry, he had the authority to establish key post towns throughout the UK and build up its postal network.

To celebrate its anniversary Royal Mail is going to create an online gallery of 500 objects, people and events that log the history of the postal service and its contribution to social and political development.

Royal Mail chief executive officer Moya Greene said: "Royal Mail has been responsible for a number of world firsts - the Penny Black stamp and the first ever airmail flight to name just two."

She continued: "It has also changed almost beyond recognition… to a national network connecting consumers, companies and communities across the UK today."

Ms Greene went on to say that she hoped that Royal Mail would continue delivering a universal service and "play an instrument in people's lives for many years to come".