The stamps will be officially launched in the MNFU marquee at the Southern Agricultural Show on Saturday, 26 July. The stamp issue is designed to support the ongoing work of the Manx National Farmers’ Union, the Greener Grass MNFU Wellbeing scheme and the Isle of Man Agricultural Benevolent Trust. At both the Southern and Royal Manx Agricultural Shows there will be stamps on display, a stamp-related treasure hunt run by the MNFU and an opportunity to meet the artist.
Agricultural practices on the Isle of Man have shaped the Island’s beautiful landscape over hundreds of years, adapting to change, while protecting our precious natural environment. Manx farming has evolved over the centuries, blending traditional techniques with modern, sustainable approaches. The result is the world’s first Whole Nation Biosphere that continues to produce incredible food.
Historically, Manx farming was small-scale and community-driven, relying on local breeds and natural farming techniques. Farmers traditionally raised hardy livestock suited to the Island’s rugged landscape. Manx Loaghtan sheep, an ancient breed, were reared for wool and meat, thriving on rough pastureland. Cattle farming focused on dual-purpose breeds for both milk and meat. Animals were often kept in small herds and rotated across common grazing land.
With less labour available, farming now incorporates modern technologies while maintaining environmental sustainability. Modern farming uses rotational grazing to improve pasture quality and prevent overgrazing. Adapting to the soil types of the Island, the mainstay of production is predominantly beef, lamb and dairy, fed almost wholly on grass-based systems, supplemented by local grain during the winter months. Many farms focus on grass-fed beef and free-range poultry.
There is a diverse range of produce, from mainstay meat, dairy and grains to vegetables, salad, and fruit. Producers support and incorporate local biodiversity within their farming systems, resulting in fine produce. Continuation of mixed traditional farming with small fields, and an ancient hedgerow network, provides essential habitat for wildlife. Manx producers have excelled at protecting the environment with a local dairy farm winning the prestigious national Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group Silver Lapwing Award in 2024.
The dairy sector is grass fed with advanced milking systems and herd management software to improve dairy efficiency. The Isle of Man Creamery works with local farmers to ensure high welfare standards and sustainable dairy production.
The uplands support many ‘hefted’ blackface flocks which have integrated with the biodiversity and formed a symbiotic beneficial relationship. Shepherds and farms still rely on the highly intelligent sheepdog to move and control flocks, being fast, agile and responsive, they are an important part of the farming family.
Integrating resilient native and productive continental breeds to adapt to the environment and increase efficiencies, the industry takes pride in its high welfare standards. The Isle of Man is proud to be both TB and BVD free. The MNFU is working with DEFA’s Animal Health Team to eradicate more disease, meaning livestock on the Island leads a protected and healthy existence.
Sarah Comish, General Secretary of the Manx National Farmers’ Union, writes: “The Island’s two agricultural shows have long been the focal point for the agricultural industry, providing opportunity to showcase local agriculture and food, and have a much-needed social! Both shows welcome thousands of visitors every year, highlighting the importance of the industry to the public. The MNFU showcases agriculture at these events, providing information and education, as well as delivering projects in schools. It is great to have this set of stamps to further support our work.”
Yolande Alberts, the local animal portrait artist who originated the paintings, said: “I thoroughly enjoyed creating these images for this stamp collection for Isle of Man Post Office. These stamps celebrate free range farming on our beautiful Island and highlight the amazing work the MNFU is doing for our farmers and farming. I wish the collection every success and I am proud to have been a part of this project.”
Ean Parsons, President of the Manx National Farmers Union: 'We are delighted that IOM Post Office has been keen to recognise Manx Agriculture with this summer issue of stamps. The artwork beautifully captures some unique images of the different types of stock on the Island. High welfare and health standards for all of our farmed animals is a priority for Manx farmers along with protecting the environment. We are grateful that IOM Post Office and the artist, Yolande were keen to support some of our essential work.'
Maxine Cannon, General Manager of Stamps and Coins at Isle of Man Post Office, said: “Yolande has captured beautifully these fine examples of Manx farm animals in this celebration of Manx farming. It’s fitting to know that this issue supports the ongoing work of the Manx National Farmers’ Union and the crucial work of the Greener Grass MNFU Wellbeing scheme and the Isle of Man Agricultural Benevolent Trust. I encourage families young and old to show their support at the Southern and Royal Manx Agricultural Shows and do take part in the Treasure Hunt too!”
The new stamp collection will be issued on 25 July 2025 and includes a Set, First Day Cover and Presentation Pack.
To view the collection and place your order please visit web link
High resolution images for this stamp issue can be found in our media centre
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS
The Southern Agricultural Show will be held on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th July 2025, followed by the Royal Manx Agricultural Show on Friday 8th and Saturday 9th August 2025.
PHOTO CAPTION: Yolande Alberts and Ian Kelly with his dog Bella.
Manx National Farmers’ Union (MNFU)
The Manx National Farmers’ Union (MNFU) is the main representative body for farmers and agricultural workers on the Isle of Man. It plays a key role in advocating for farming interests, supporting rural businesses, lobbying the Isle of Man Government to shape agricultural policies to support the industry and protect locally produced food. As farming becomes increasingly challenged across the world, the MNFU works to educate the public and IOM Government on our farming practices on Island to bust popular myths and showcase how Manx Agriculture cares for our land and livestock, making it best to buy Manx!
Yolande Alberts is a local animal portrait artist. She moved to the Isle of Man 10 years ago from South Africa with her husband and two daughters. She is a self-taught artist who spends her free time with her dogs and her Welsh pony, Ronnie.
Technical Details
|
Text |
Sarah Comish, Manx National Farmers’ Union |
|
Artwork |
Yolande Alberts |
|
Design |
EJC Design |
|
Printer |
Cartor |
|
Process |
Offset Lithography |
|
Colours |
4 |
|
Paper |
PVA gummed 110 gsm |
|
Perforations |
11.5 per 2cm |
|
Stamp Size |
52mm x 40mm |
|
Format |
Sheets of 6 |
|
Date of Issue |
25th July 2025 |
|
Limited Editions |
Presentation Packs 1,000; First Day Covers 1,500 |
Product Descriptions
|
Set |
One of each stamp. Can be either mint condition (not been used for postage and should be in pristine condition having full gum and perfect perforations) or cancelled to order (CTO) (Mint stamps that have been cancelled while still in sheet format prior to being separated into individual or blocks of stamps.) |
|
First Day Cover |
A specially designed envelope on which a full set of stamps, is affixed and cancelled on the first day of issue. They usually feature a pictorial postmark. |
|
Presentation Pack |
Packs containing a set of stamps inserted within a clear acetate mounted black card. The outer card covers contain details of the stamps and a short narrative of the issue subject. |
Every effort has been made to trace or contact all copyright holders. Isle of Man Post Office will be pleased to make good any omissions or rectify any mistakes brought to their attention at the earliest opportunity.
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