ROYAL Mail’s stamp programme kicks-off 2014 with an issue that celebrates more than 60 years of classic children’s TV.

Twelve of the most popular characters from children’s television are included in the set.

The full line-up features Andy Pandy, Ivor the Engine, Dougal - from The Magic Roundabout, Windy Miller - from Camberwick Green, Mr Benn, Great Uncle Bulgaria - from The Wombles, Bagpuss, Paddington Bear, Postman Pat, Bob the Builder, Peppa Pig and Shaun the Sheep.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Bagpuss first appearing on TV. The saggy cloth cat is continually cited as one of the most favourite British children’s TV character of all time.

The year also marks the 50th anniversary of ‘The Magic Roundabout’. The prolific British animator Ivor Wood created Dougal, one of the show’s memorable characters, who also ranks highly in people’s affections. Wood also went on to animate Paddington Bear and Postman Pat for TV.

Each decade since the 1950s is represented in this issue.

Andrew Hammond, Royal Mail Stamps, said: “For more than 60 years, Britain’s children’s TV characters have brought cheer to generations of viewers. More importantly it has presented us with a cast of characters that, like the memories of the programmes themselves, remain with us throughout our lives.

”It feels appropriate to celebrate all of these unforgettable characters on a set of very special stamps.”