A NEW Royal Mail stamp issued today to celebrate the works of Jane Austen depicts Lyme Regis.

To mark the 200th anniversary of her most famous novel Pride and Prejudice, a set of six stamps feature Austen’s published novels.

The stamp featuring Persuasion depicts a seaside scene of Lyme Regis in the background.

The author visited Lyme Regis on at least two occasions and set part of last novel Persuasion in the town.

It features Louisa Musgrove’s famous fall from the Granny’s Teeth steps on the Cobb. Each stamp depicts key scenes in specially commissioned artwork by illustrator Angela Barrett.

Persuasion features on the £1.28 Airmail stamp.

Royal Mail spokesman Andrew Hammond said: “When you think of great British authors, Jane Austen inevitably comes to mind. Her novels have contributed immeasurably to British culture over the last two centuries.”

He added: “It is therefore an honour for Royal Mail to commemorate her work with this special set of stamps and fitting that it falls during the 200th anniversary celebrations of Pride and Prejudice, her most famous masterpiece.”