Commonwealth Youth Games: Commemorative stamps released

Image caption, The sheet of eight stamps will feature the 2011 Commonwealth Youth Games mascot Tosha

The Isle of Man Post Office has created a set of commemorative stamps to celebrate the Commonwealth Youth Games, which start on Thursday.

The eight stamps feature the Games mascot, Tosha, participating in each of the seven sports, and the Games logo.

Dot Tilbury of the Philatelic Bureau said: "We are delighted to make a positive contribution to the overall success of the Games."

The opening ceremony will be held at the Bowl in Douglas on 8 September.

'Lasting souvenirs'

Mrs Tilbury added: "The Post Office wanted to create lasting souvenirs and mementoes of the Commonwealth Youth Games and commemorate the fact it is taking place on the Isle of Man."

The Isle of Man Treasury has also had minted a special two pound coin to mark the event, which will go in to general circulation on the island during the Games.

The coin will have the Games' mascot and logo on one side with the Lord of Man, Queen Elizabeth II, on the reverse.

More than 1,000 athletes will compete in seven sporting events during the week-long event.