Graham, like myself enjoyed TV21 as a youngster, and freely admits he takes most of the inspiration for his super Anderson cutaways from the legendary comic and its associated publications.
Mike Noble talked about the continuity that TV21 maintained for readers during the times when the shows weren't on TV.
At the end of the interview, an impromptu auction was held in aid of the event's chosen charities. Mike had brought along an interesting item. A page showing two photos - one of a U2 spy plane, and the other showing the U2 pilot, Jon Huggins, aerodynamic scientist Ian Moule, TV21 editor Alan Fennell, script writer Angus Allen, an un-named test pilot, and Mike himself by the side of the aircraft. If I remember rightly, the photo, which Mike signed raised over £160.
The next interview was titled The A.P. Films Years, and featured Peter Hitchcock and Brian Johnson together.
Peter recounted those early days, admitting to making a few faux pas, one involving an over use of dry ice, but not unsurprisingly enjoying his time at Stirling Road.
Brian Johnson chatted about his times prior to working at the studio, and working with matte artist Les Bowie. Les who, once the C21 team had moved to Stirling Road, worked at APF's former studio in Ipswich Road on Moon Zero Two for Hammer.
The next guest was a real scoop. Richard Cully was managing director of Associated Television Licensing which controlled the commercial rights for not only Gerry Anderson's TV series, but other well known intellectual properties from the sixties. He also worked with Century 21 puppeteer, Mary Turner, when Richard was involved with licensing the TV series Rupert The Bear.
As well as Thunderbirds and Captain Scarlet, Richard licensed the Corgi James Bond Aston Martin DB5 die cast toy. Although he primarily worked for ATV, he did take over the Century 21 merchandising operation when former Century 21 merchandise manager Keith Shackleton left towards the end of the sixties.
Richard left ATV in 1974 and went on to licence the Mr Men, My Little Pony and the Teenage Mutant Hero Turtles. He also approved the licence for Blue Peter to produce the phenomenally successful instruction sheet for viewers to make their own Tracy Island.
Following Richard Culley's interview a break was called for and I needed to check out the original artwork display.
The final interview was Stuntman Paul Weston again, but this time he took time to talk about his time on Bond. Here's a ten minute video to give you all a taster.
Next time - Special Assignment: Original Artwork.
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