“Some post boxes are rarer than others and some have a very special place in our heritage. They are also an icon of the UK’s postal system around the world,” Sue Whalley, Royal Mail’s chief operating officer said. Duncan Wilson, chief executive of Historic England, appreciated: “Post boxes are a cherished feature of British streets, adding character, colour and historic depth. Around 200 of the oldest and most rare are listed, but all are important to our heritage.” Both Royal Mail and Historic England are involved into an actual project to preserve, repair and conserve the post boxes across the country in their existing locations. Preventing damage or theft are also stipulated. The only allowed change will be to paint in gold 110 post boxes to celebrate London 2012 British Olympic and Paralympic champions.