Poppy-themed commemorative stamps paying tribute to all those who have served in the Armed Forces are due to be issued by the Royal Mail this week to raise money for the National Memorial Arboretum, in Staffordshire.

The Remembrance commemorative sheet will include 10 first class stamps featuring images of the Armed Forces Memorial, in Alrewas, Staffordshire, which is a tribute to the 16,000 British troops killed on duty or as a result of terrorism since the Second World War.

It is hoped money raised from their sale will fund a Veterans' Pavilion for military units and ex-servicemen who use the venue as well as expanding the Arboretum's educational work.

Prince William is a patron of the £8 million National Memorial Arboretum Appeal, set up to maintain the centre of remembrance.

Major General Patrick Cordingley, chairman of the appeal group, said: "The Arboretum has become a place in which the nation comes to remember and pays tribute to our Armed Forces.

"However, we must better honour our heroes and all they stand for by ensuring that we provide the buildings and facilities for the ever-increasing number of visitors. We are delighted that the funds raised through this wonderful Royal Mail initiative will help us achieve this."

Royal Mail spokesman Philip Parker said: "We hope this special commemorative sheet is a particularly fitting tribute to those who have given their lives and that the proceeds raised will help support the Arboretum in its work to provide a national centre of excellence."

The stamps will be issued on Thursday and will be available from post offices, by mail order and at the National Memorial Arboretum at a cost of £13.50 of which £9.71 will be donated to the Arboretum Appeal.