Iconic Children's TV Puppets Set for Midlands Auction
The original Sooty glove puppet that launched one of Britain's most beloved children's television franchises is heading to auction in the Midlands. This historic collection, which includes the very first Sooty puppet purchased in 1948 alongside two Sweep puppets and two Soo puppets, represents a significant piece of television heritage for generations who grew up watching the show.
Family Treasures with Impeccable Provenance
Dave Corbett, the 81-year-old son of legendary puppeteer Harry Corbett, is consigning these cherished family possessions to auction. Dave and his brother Matthew served as the original inspiration for the globally successful television phenomenon that entertained children from the 1950s through the 1990s. The collection is expected to attract bids up to £6,000 when it goes under the hammer at Hansons Auctioneers in Etwall, Derbyshire, on April 23.
The story begins in 1948 when Harry Corbett purchased a simple yellow glove puppet for seven shillings and sixpence to entertain his young sons during a family holiday in Blackpool. Dave Corbett recalls, "I don't remember it because I was so young, but we were on holiday in Blackpool on the North Pier when dad bought the puppet to amuse me and my brother Matthew." That spontaneous purchase of a puppet originally known simply as 'Teddy' would blossom into a cultural institution.
The Birth of a Television Legend
It was Dave's mother, Marjorie Corbett, who gave the puppet its distinctive appearance and name. Dave explains, "It was mum who used some soot from the fire on his ears and nose to make him seem more endearing. Hence the name Sooty and then later Sweep." Marjorie, known affectionately as Toabs, became the voice and "hand" of Soo in 1964, crafting all the puppets' clothing and even naming Soo as a shortened version of Sooty.
The sale includes a specially engineered mechanical device created by the show's prop maker Bill Garret to help Marjorie manipulate Soo more effectively. Dave notes, "It was quickly apparent that, unlike dad who was a talented pianist and magician, mum's manipulation skills were not up to par. So the mechanical device was then made to help mum move Soo better."
Behind the Scenes of a Television Phenomenon
Sooty made his television debut in 1952, quickly becoming a sensation with his mischievous antics and magic wand. Dave remembers assisting his father during performances, "I remember handing props up to dad from under the table." He also recalls his father's deep affection for the character, stating, "To my dad Sooty was like a child, an actual person and a real part of his life. I remember how he would use a pin to meticulously comb Sooty's face to make sure he looked his very best."
The collection represents the original puppets used by the Corbett family, distinct from the commercial replicas produced by toymaker Chad Valley over the years. Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons Auctioneers, emphasizes their significance, "What makes this Sooty, Sweep and Soo stand head and shoulders above the rest is they were effectively part of the Corbett family and owned by Harry himself. Being consigned for sale by his son means the provenance could not be better."
Expected Interest from Collectors and Institutions
Hanson anticipates strong interest from museums, private collectors, and British television enthusiasts, noting that similar items have achieved remarkable prices at auction. In 2018, Hansons set a world record when an original puppet used by Harry Corbett sold for £14,500. Hanson comments, "We are expecting interest from museums, private collectors and British TV buffs which could make the price really skyrocket."
The auction lot also includes a hardback This Is Your Life album presented to Harry Corbett by Michael Aspel following the 1988 show, famously featuring Aspel arriving dressed in a full-size Sooty outfit. The book is signed 'Got you at last, Harry! Best Wishes + Thanks Michael Aspel and the team'.
A Lasting Legacy of Family Entertainment
Harry Corbett suffered a heart attack and retired in 1976, with his son Matthew taking over the show after working on Rainbow. Dave pursued a career in education, settling in Worcestershire as a teacher while maintaining his passion for children's entertainment through storytelling musical podcasts and composing musicals for young audiences.
Dave now hopes these historic puppets, currently stored in a box, will find a new home with someone who will truly appreciate their cultural significance. Hanson reflects on their enduring appeal, "Some entertainment acts, like Sooty and Sweep, become a cultural phenomenon. If you think the antics of the mischievous duo hasn't stood the test of time, have a look at the old programmes on YouTube. The slapstick is hilarious. Strips of fur they may be, but these glove puppets represent some of the most iconic moments of entertainment history."
