Canterbury Flag at half-mast for Peter Firmin

The city council flag at its Military Road office flew at half-mast earlier this week (Monday 2 July) following the death of Peter Firmin, a Freeman of the City of Canterbury.

Mr Peter Firmin, who co-created Bagpuss, The Clangers, Noggin the Nog and Ivor the Engine, received the Honorary Freedom of the City in 2011 in recognition of his achievements.

Peter Firmin with his Freedom of the City award, alongside Michael Head and then Lord Mayor Ian Thomas

Nominating him for the Freedom at the time, former council leader Alex Perkins described Mr Firmin as:

“Humble, brilliant and hugely talented – a credit and an asset to our city and our district”. He went on to say: “The freedom we bestow on you is nothing when compared to the gift you have given to generations – the freedom to explore the world of childhood.”

The council has opened a book of condolence at its visitor information centre in the Beaney. Messages will be passed to Mr Firmin’s family.

Chief Executive Colin Carmichael said:

“It is always special when we award a Freedom of the City, but Peter’s ceremony really stands out in the memory. He had an extraordinary career and we have always been proud that he, with his animation partner Oliver Postgate, created all these amazing characters, right here in the district.

“It is a very sad day for Canterbury and we will remember Peter with a minute’s silence at our next full council meeting later this month.”

Displays relating to many of Mr Firmin’s creations, including Bagpuss and The Clangers, are on permanent display in the Beaney Museum and art gallery on the high street in Canterbury.