The first special stamps to feature the King's silhouette have been released by Royal Mail.

Ten stamps - celebrating popular flowers grown in gardens in the UK - are now available to pre-order.

Described as a 'significant milestone in British philatelic history' it is the first change of silhouette since 1968.

Choosing UK flowers for the first special release of stamps featuring King Charles was said to be a fitting choice because the new monarch is himself a keen gardener.

The stamps feature photographs of flowers including the Iris, Lily, Sunflower, Tulip, Rose and Dahlia, against a white background alongside their common names.

Extensive work has gone into producing the King's new stamp silhouette to ensure a likeness, says the Royal Mail, that would work at a stamp size.

The final image for the 10 special stamps was also adjusted to ensure a likeness to the new Definitive ’everyday’ stamp, images of which have already been released.

David Gold, Director of External Affairs & Policy, Royal Mail, said: "Britain is a nation of gardeners, and a love of flowers runs deep in our collective consciousness.

"His Majesty is known to be a passionate gardener and we are delighted that the first Special Stamps to feature his silhouette should be a celebration of some of the most popular flowers in British gardens."

The stamps are available to pre-order from Tuesday via the Royal Mail website or by telephoning 03457 641 641.

A Presentation Pack including all 10 stamps in the set will go on general sale from March 23 and will cost £10.40.