For the very first time, Cosgrove Hall Films’ animation collection will go on permanent display in a new, purpose-built space.
From today, Count Duckula, Danger Mouse, Postman Pat and Noddy will join a host of other characters at the newly refurbished Sale Library in Trafford.
“This is a really significant milestone for the Cosgrove Hall Films Archive. To have this incredible collection on permanent display realises an ambition the team at Waterside has held for many years,” explained Rosy Whittemore, Project Curator at Cosgrove Hall Films Archive.
“We know the reaction this work gets from visitors of all ages, and the power it has to ignite the imagination and bring joy. In a digital world, it’s extraordinary to be able to see the craft, dedication, and love that goes into hand-drawn and stop-motion animation.”
Cosgrove Hall was founded in 1976 by Brian Cosgrove and Mark Hall. Based in Chorlton, it became the UK’s largest animation studios, bringing together some of the UK’s best puppet-makers, actors and animators who created series including Noddy, Jamie and the Magic Torch, Postman Pat: Special Delivery, and Animal Shelf.
They also produced Roald Dahl’s The BFG (1989), Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows (1983), and Terry Pratchett’s Truckers (1992).
Its first major hit came in 1981, with Danger Mouse and visitors to Sale Library will be able to view the original drawn ‘cels’ of the world’s greatest secret agent (who was voiced by David Jason) that are layered to give the impression of movement.
Cosgrove Hall closed in 2009 and until 2017 its original sets and props were held in storage. However, they faced destruction, unless a new home could be found, that’s when they came under the care of Sale Waterside. That was mainly due to the efforts of former Cosgrove Hall development producer, Westley Wood who helped ensure its legacy.
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“Creating a permanent, free-to-enjoy home for the Cosgrove Hall Films Archive reflects Trafford Council’s commitment to making culture and heritage accessible to everyone,” said Cllr Eve Parker, Executive Member for Leisure, Arts, Culture and Heritage at Trafford Council.
“These much-loved characters shaped my own childhood – as they did for millions of others – and it’s wonderful to see them preserved and celebrated here in Sale for the whole community to enjoy.
“The refurbishment of Sale Library has produced a vibrant, welcoming space where creativity, learning and local heritage sit at the heart of the visitor experience. I’m delighted that this remarkable chapter of British animation history now has a home here, where it will continue to inspire families and visitors for generations to come.”
The exhibition features original puppets, props, sets, and scripts, displayed alongside the storybooks that inspired classics such as The Wind in the Willows and The BFG.
