Walter Tull in First World War stamp collection

To mark the centenary of the end of the First World War, Royal Mail have created a set of six special stamps, one of which features an image of Second Lieutenant Walter Tull, our former player and the first mixed-race Army officer to command troops in a regular unit.

In addition to the image of Walter, the stamps also feature historic memorials and artefacts that have become synonymous with the conflict, art showing some famous and moving war scenes, poems composed during the war and newly-commissioned artworks of poppies – the symbol of Remembrance.

After making his mark as a talented local football player, Tull went on to become one of Britain’s first professional players of a black heritage, playing first for Clapton FC before being signed by us and later transferring to Northampton Town. When war broke out, Tull enlisted in the Footballers’ Battalion of the Middlesex Regiment and became the first black combat officer in the British Army. He was mentioned in despatches and recommended for the Military Cross for his bravery in the face of enemy fire. Sadly he died during the Battle of the Somme on 25 March, 1918.

Pat Justad, Walter’s great niece, said: “We are honoured that this Royal Mail stamp is commemorating our great uncle Walter Tull, who died tragically 100 years ago during the First World War. While it is a time, for us as a family, to remember respectfully the death of our great uncle in such a terrible war, like so many others, we are also proud of his accomplishments.

"Walter’s life and achievements have been acknowledged and celebrated in a variety of ways for over 20 years. Many of these activities and projects concern challenging and overcoming inequality and discrimination. While this year of centenary may provide a particular spotlight on Walter's story and life, we hope that Walter’s example will continue to encourage and promote projects that support inclusion and equality.”

The stamps and commemorative products can be pre-ordered now from www.royalmail.com/firstworldwar and are available on general sale from 7,000 Post Offices nationwide from 13 September, 2018.