'Bagpuss' and 'The Clangers' creator Peter Firmin has sadly passed away aged 89.
Peter Firmin
The TV legend - who was the mind behind a host of timeless characters including Basil Brush - died on Sunday (01.07.18) after a short illness, and leaves behind an incredible legacy.
In a statement, his spokesperson confirmed and tragic news and said: "During a career spanning over six decades, Peter worked with great skill in a remarkably wide variety of creative disciplines as a fine artist, craftsman and author.
"Of all his work, he will probably be most fondly remembered for the characters he co-created and made."
While he worked with Ivan Owen on mischievous fox Basil, Firmin also collaborated with his long-time business partner Oliver Postgate on the likes of 'The Clangers', 'Bagpuss', 'Ivor The Engine', 'Noggin the Nog' and 'Pogles Wood'.
His spokesman added that he "devised, created, painted, drew and built the marvellous and diverse worlds" of his beloved characters, which have "such magical and enduring appeal that they remain hugely popular to this day".
Firmin's incredible career was recognised with a Bafta Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014, and a year later 'The Clangers' - which first aired on the BBC in 1969 - was relaunched.
Alice Webb, director of BBC Children's programmes, added: "Peter helped to bring to life some of the most iconic children's programmes of a generation. Working together on the relaunch of The Clangers it was clear to see he hadn't lost any of his trademark talent or passion.
"A remarkable man with an incredible ability to create wonderful characters that children have adored for decades he will be fondly remembered and sorely missed."
He is survived by his wife Joan and six daughters, plus many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
The social media accounts of his shows have paid their respects, including Basil who tweeted: "Very very sad news Mr Peter, who along with Mr Ivan helped bring me into this world in 1962 has died... RIP Mr Peter. Basil x (sic)"