another 'thankyou' to Oliver Postgate (Bagpuss)

Member Name: freud

Product:	Bagpuss
Date:	09/12/08 (265 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: great viewing for both children & adults

Disadvantages: only 13 episodes made

This is my 2nd review dedicated to Oliver Postgate who sadly died yesterday - my first one was on the Clangers & this one is about my favourite TV cat - Bagpuss.

It was first aired on BBC in 1974 & there were only 13 episodes made which, in my opinion, makes them a classic series.

They are still lovingly watched by children today & I think the secret is in the simplicity & gentleness of the storylines & the great character of Bagpuss, 'an old saggy cloth cat, baggy & a bit loose at the seams..'

The stories & animation were created by Peter Firmin & Oliver Postgate - a brilliant duo in my opinion.

The stories start with an introduction to Emily who has a shop which doesn't sell anything.

Her job is to find lost or broken toys to give to Bagpuss to mend, if necessary, and then display in her shop window so that the toys can be reunited with their owners.

Bagpuss is helped by his friends Madeline the ragdoll, mice from the mouse organ, Gabrielle Toad & Professor Yaffle. If this all sounds a bit 'twee' don't be fooled as Bagpuss can be viewed on several levels & appeals to many adults as well as the younger audience.

The theme tune is catchy & memorable & overall the series is a gentle & nostalgic one.

Apparently Russell Brand is a huge fan of both Bagpuss & Mr Postgate - great minds eh?.....

I won't talk about the commercialisation of Bagpuss - just to tell you that my daughters both have the Bagpuss stuffed toy & I just happen to be wearing my Bagpuss PJs whilst writing this review!

I'd like to end by thanking Oliver Postgate for Bagpuss, Noggin the Nog & the Clangers - he seemed such a nice but mischievous man who was very well respected.

I was fortunate to view his programmes in the 70s & have shared them with my daughters - maybe one day they'll be watched by any grandchildren I may be fortunate to have?

Summary: a classic series about a cat,his friends & Emily