The bowler hatted everyman Mr Benn was first seen on television on 25 February 1971. Introducing the cartoon as part of the Watch with Mother strand, the Radio Times said "Every week Mr Benn dresses up and finds himself in a different adventure." Mr Benn was written and illustrated by David McKee, who contrasted Mr Benn's ordinary suburban life at 52 Festive Road with the magical costume shop, and its shop keeper, who would appear "as if by magic".
Mr Benn's first adventure was as a red knight, stepping out of the changing room and into a world where he had to help a dragon. In later stories he variously became a big game hunter, cook, caveman, balloonist, zookeeper, caveman, diver, wizard, cowboy, clown, magic carpet rider, spaceman and pirate. The programme was narrated by Ray Brooks.
Mr Benn is loved by several generations of viewers as it has been shown time and again, although only 13 episodes were ever made for the 大象传媒. McKee has created other popular characters in King Rollo and Elmer the Elephant. In 2009 the residents of Festing Road, Putney, marked the inspiration for Festive Road by unveiling a plaque outside McKee's old house at no 54, in tribute to Mr Benn and his creator.
February anniversaries
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Blue Peter 5000th edition
1 February 2018 -
Face to Face
4 February 1959 -
First TV Sports commentary
4 February 1937 -
The Wombles
5 February 1973 -
A Night of Comic Relief
5 February 1988 -
Greenwich Time Signal - the 'pips'
5 February 1924 -
Grange Hill
8 February 1978 -
大象传媒 Three is launched
9 February 2003 -
Doomwatch
9 February 1970 -
Bagpuss
12 February 1974 -
The EBU - European Broadcasting Union formed
12 February 1950 -
Potter's Wheel Interlude
16 February 1953 -
Start of Six-Five Special
16 February 1957 -
The Apprentice
16 February 2005 -
Hospital Watch
17 February 1986 -
Elizabeth R
17 February 1971 -
One Man and His Dog
17 February 1976 -
Antiques Roadshow
18 February 1979 -
Tonight launched
18 February 1957 -
Wogan
18 February 1985 -
EastEnders first episode
19 February 1985 -
Open All Hours
20 February 1976 -
First national broadcast of prices for farmers
20 February 1925 -
General Election results televised for the first time
23 February 1950 -
Civilisation
23 February 1969 -
Yes Minister
25 February 1980 -
Mr Benn
25 February 1971