Ref. 26069-10A UNIQUE slice of history is being preserved in a new issue of stamps.

The Cross Keys pub in Burycroft, Lower Wanborough, was the venue for the official launch of a range of stamps that commemorates a millennium of pub signs.

The Cross Keys artwork features on the 42 pence stamp. The sign was originally designed by prolific artist George Mackenney.

The pub's name dates back to 1552 and the keys symbolise the keys to the gates of Heaven.

Landlady Mandy Clay, who has run the pub for five years with her husband, John, said: "The Cross Keys represent the keys to the gates of heaven, which is a bit like what you get when you eat here!

"Seriously though, pub signs are ancient and we are the only country in the world to have this history.

"All pub names have a meaning, apart from modern ones like the Slug and Lettuce, and the signs are an art form."

The other pub signs that feature in the range of five stamps are The Station (first class), The Black Swan (38p), The Mayflower (47p) and the Barley Sheaf (68p).

Royal Mail spokesman Don Veale said: "There has always been a link between our pubs and the Royal Mail. It goes back to the days when coaches would stay in inns overnight when delivering the mail.

"The Cross Keys is a very historic sign. The first time it was seen was in 1552.

"We have not been able to copy the sign exactly, but pubs change their signs every 15 years because of weathering, so it would be very difficult."