If you think back 50 years, a character named Bagpuss made its debut on children's television. Fast-forward to today, and the character is expected to make a big-screen return in a new live-action and animated feature film. The beloved pink and white cat was known for living in a shop that was a home for lost property, and recently, Bagpuss celebrated its 50th anniversary. The stop-motion series only produced 13 episodes and was voted the all-time favourite children's programme in 1999. It has been reported that the new, reimagined story will see Bagpuss and his companions stir from their sleep to find themselves in modern Britain.

Michael Ford, chief executive of Threewise Entertainment, said: "Bagpuss was a 'saggy old cloth' with many a tall tale to tell of grand adventures past, and we're very proud and excited to be bringing this iconic character back to life with the blessing of both the original creators' estates.

"This family movie will aim to rouse the sleepy old cat from his slumber and reunite him with his spirit of adventure for a fun and heartfelt quest that will delight fans old and new."

The original series was created by Peter Firmin and Oliver Postgate. It was filmed in Firmin's barn in Blean, Kent, and featured Peter's daughter Emily. Bagpuss would come to life after she left the animals on their own, as the programme turned from sepia to coloured television.

Emily Firmin added: "Bagpuss was an integral part of my childhood. To me, he wasn't just a character on the screen; he was a friend who taught me about kindness, care, and imagination.

"To see our most magical cat return now is incredibly moving, and I'm thrilled that new fans will have the chance to discover him, and that his magic will live on and be shared with the next generation."

The animated film is believed to be released in 2027. Threewise Entertainment has said that Oliver Postgate's son, the Bafta-winning writer Daniel Postgate, developed and approved the story before his death in June.