Fabulous Films is to release the complete series of Willo the Wisp. The classic children’s animation is due to be released on DVD and Blu-Ray in August 2024.
Willo the Wisp was originally derived from an educational animation for British Gas, created by Nicholas Spargo in 1975. The narrator was actor Kenneth Williams, who continued the task when the proceeding show aired on the BBC in 1981. The show initially aired for one series of 26 episodes. Willo the Wisp was later revived on Playhouse Disney in 2005, for a further 26 episodes. This later incarnation saw James Dreyfus take over as the narrator.
Each story is based around characters found living in Doyley Woods. Alongside Willo, there was Mavis Cruet, the fairy, whose magic didn’t always work; Arthur, the intelligent caterpillar; Evil Edna, the witch who had been turned into a television set; Carwash, a cat; The Moog, a dog with very little brain; Twit, a bird and the Beast, who was a former Prince before he had been changed by Evil Edna.” Synopsis from Fabulous Films.
The set by Fabulous Films comprises both series of the show. Also included as an extra is the original film for British Gas. Presumably due to the appearance of the Blu-Ray edition, these episodes will be remastered.
This release is one of many classic children’s shows Fabulous Films has released in the last year. Other recent titles have included Count Duckula, Ivor the Engine, The Wind in the Willows, The Clangers, Bagpuss, Jamie and the Magic Torch and The Trumptonshire Trilogy. Additional titles of Danger Mouse and Button Moon will be issued shortly. We will continue to update when new titles are announced.
