The 10 first-class stamps issued on 1 February 2007, include pictures of British Moon Jellyfish, Beadlet Anemone, Bass, Common Starfish, Grey Seal, Lesser Octopus, Common Mussels, Shore Crab, Thornback Ray and Common Sun Star.

The Wildlife Trusts described Royal Mail's celebration of sea life as 'a timely reminder for the Government to fulfill its commitment to protect the UK's seas in a Marine Bill'.

'The UK's coasts and seas are home to a fantastic variety of wildlife, from giant basking sharks to tiny corals,' said Lisa Browning, marine development manager of The Wildlife Trusts. Over past decades, these have come under increasing pressure from fishing, sand and gravel dredging, oil and gas extraction and many other uses.

There is almost nowhere in our seas that has not been damaged in some way and every level of marine life is under threat, from top predators, such as dolphins, to precious sunset corals and delicate pink sea fans.'

Further details on Royal Mail and The Wildlife Trusts websites.