Sir Quentin Blake 'excited' as works come to life in Christmas films on BBC

24 November 2023 , 19:00

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Sir Quentin Blake's drawings are being turned into films with the first two going out over the festive period (Image: PA)

Sir Quentin Blake has said he cannot wait to see his animated characters brought to life by the BBC this Christmas.

The illustrator, best known for his work with author Roald Dahl, is having six of his own stories turned into films. The first two will be broadcast as festive treats, voiced by stars including Simon Pegg and Adrian Lester.

Quentin told the Mirror: "I’m very excited that several of my picture books are being made into animated films. There is nearly always a lot of running about in the books and to see that actually happening on the screen will be a real pleasure."

Quentin told how he has also enjoyed seeing his stories expanded for the festive series, titled Quentin Blake’s Box of Treasures.

Adrian Lester narrates Jack and Nancy from the famous artist's books (Eagle Eye Drama / BBC / Charlie Clift)

Simon Pegg voices the dad in Zagazoo, adapted from the Quentin Blake book (Eagle Eye Drama / BBC / Charlie Clift)

He explained: "I’m fascinated to see the extra ideas and inventions going into them. I am delighted to think that over the Christmas period, families and friends will be sitting around and enjoying them together."

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* Zagazoo and Jack and Nancy will be on BBC iPlayer from December 1 and on CBBC and BBC One later next month.

Nicola Methven