The original Sooty puppets from the 1960s, belonging to Harry Corbett’s son, are set to be auctioned, potentially fetching up to £6,000. Dave Corbett, who, together with his brother Matthew, inspired the beloved children’s TV phenomenon, is selling the iconic yellow glove puppet, two Sweeps, two Soos, and the mechanical device used to operate Soo. These items offer a glimpse behind the scenes of how the puppets were animated.
Back in 1948, legendary puppeteer Harry Corbett bought a glove puppet for his sons, Dave and Matthew, while on a family holiday in Blackpool. This simple purchase of a yellow puppet named ‘Teddy’ evolved into a renowned children’s program thanks to Harry’s creativity. Dave, now 81, has decided to part with these cherished pieces of TV history, which will be auctioned at Hansons Auctioneers in Etwall, Derbyshire, on April 23.
Growing up in Guisley near Leeds, Dave fondly remembers the puppets being a significant part of their family life. His mother, Marjorie, known as Toabs, added soot from the fire to make the puppets more endearing, leading to the names Sooty and Sweep. A specially designed mechanical device was also created for Marjorie to operate Soo, enhancing the puppet’s movements.
Sooty made his TV debut in 1952, quickly becoming a sensation with his magic wand antics. Dave reminisces about his involvement in the show, assisting his father and witnessing Harry’s genuine affection for Sooty, treating him like a real person. The auction will include various Sooty puppets with unique features, distinct from mass-produced versions, reflecting their history in puppetry.
The upcoming auction at Hansons is expected to draw interest from museums, collectors, and TV enthusiasts, given the strong provenance of the puppets being part of the Corbett family. In the past, an original puppet used by Harry Corbett set a world record at £14,500. Dave’s significant contributions to the show as a stage manager and musical director highlight his dedication to children’s entertainment.
Apart from the iconic puppets, the auction will feature memorabilia like Sweeps and a This Is Your Life album presented to Harry Corbett. The Corbett family’s legacy in children’s entertainment continues through Dave’s storytelling podcasts and musical compositions for young audiences, showcasing his ongoing passion for the industry.
As the glove puppets await a new owner, Charles Hanson emphasizes the enduring appeal of Sooty and Sweep as cultural icons, transcending time with their humorous performances. Sooty’s encounters with celebrities, including a memorable meeting with Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, add to the puppets’ rich history in entertainment.