Postman Pat
Postman Pat was a much loved BBC stop motion animated children's television series aimed at pre-school children, concerning the adventures of Pat, a postman in the (fictional) Cumbrian village of Greendale (inspired by the real valley of Longsleddale). The animated series was originally screened in the 1980s. It was based on a set of stories by John Cunliffe. Animator Ivor Wood also worked on The Magic Roundabout and Paddington Bear.
Pat was the owner of a small black and white cat named Jess, who always travelled with him. Other characters included the postmistress, Mrs. Goggins, Ted Glen, Granny Dryden and the vicar, Reverend Timms. The jaunty theme tune was a big hit, which has enjoyed a revival as a mobile phone ring tone.
Several books based around the series were also produced. Merchandise featuring the image of Postman Pat is still popular among children (as well as with parents who grew up watching the programme).
In June 2003, the Beast Banks post office in Longsleddale, the real-life inspiration for the Greendale post office, closed down due to lack of business. On September 15 2004 a plaque was placed at the former post office to mark its role as the inspiration for the Postman Pat stories.
