Round the world solo yachtsman, Sir Francis Chichester, is celebrated by the Royal Mail with a stamp issued on April 29. The 47p stamp is part of a set called Extreme Endeavours, featuring some of the greatest adventurers of the 20th century, issued to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the conquest of Everest.

The 1953 British Everest are featured on the 1st Class stamp. the rest of the issue include pioneer aviator Amy Johnson (2nd Class), Middle Eastern explorer Dame Freya Stark (European letter rate), and Antarctic heroes Sir Ernest Shackleton (42p) and Captain Robert Falcon Scott (68p)

Stamps, Presentation Packs featuring all of the stamps and some background information (£2.75) and stamp postcards (25p) will be available either from Post Office branches, Royal Mail orderline: 08457 641 641. Overseas customers can place orders via the order line 44 131 316 7483 or on-line at www.royalmail.com