19th July 2008 marks the 60th Birthday of Sooty, star of the longest running children’s TV show in the world. Having been discovered (well, bought for 6 pence) by Harry Corbett on Blackpool pier in 1948, Sooty has remained in the hearts, minds, and on the television screens, of generations of British fans. Trademark features of the Sooty show are the slapstick comedy routines and magic tricks.

The most recent presenter of Sooty, Richard Cadell, who was discovered by Matthew Corbett when he won the Young Magician of the Year award at 15, is thrilled to have bought the rights to Sooty and has some very exciting plans for Sooty’s future on television including a sitcom, a children’s game show, an interactive show in front of a studio audience of children as well as a brand new theatre tour. Of course, Sooty will be joined by Sweep and Soo for all future projects. Richard explains: “I am so excited to introduce Sooty to a new generation of children who just want to be entertained. Sooty is about fun and magic and laughter and I intend to put him firmly on the map of must– see children’s entertainment. The generations who know and love Sooty will be able to enjoy him once again, with their children. This is a really exciting time.”