Chorlton & the Wheelies: Remembering a Cosgrove Hall Classic

As part of my Summer Rewind series, I am bringing you another children’s classic, Chorlton and the Wheelies.

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History

Chorlton and the Wheelies was a unique British animated series first aired in 1976. Created by Roy Wilson, the show was produced by Woodland Animations (Charlie Chalk, Postman Pat and Gran, to name a few). The show quickly became a hit with younger audiences with its charm, imaginative world, and memorable characters. Chorlton and the Wheelies remains a beloved part of animated television history even though only 40 episodes were produced, and reruns are rare.

Plotline

The series takes place in  Wheelie World, where the wheelies live. The Wheelies are a race of creatures who move by using wheels, not legs.

The wheelies are in constant conflict with Fenella the Kettle Witch, an evil Welsh witch. She lives in the same world but is separated from the Wheelies in Spout Hall, an oversized kettle.  

Fenella hates happiness and uses spells and her powers to make the Wheelies unhappy. She has the most fantastic chin in animation and transports herself by passing through the ground and reappearing elsewhere, a little like teleportation. She constantly tries to make the world unhappy but often fails. 

The Wheelies have adopted a happiness dragon, Chorlton. Chorlton is a good-natured and clueless dragon-wheeler.  He doesn’t perceive Fenella as a villain and affectionately refers to her as a little old lady, and his presence negates Fenella's magic.

Chorlton and the Wheelies captures the spirit of exploration and curiosity and highlights the importance of friendship, problem-solving, and embracing the wonders of the unknown while celebrating the joy of discovery and imagination.

Characters

Chorlton: Chorlton, is a magical, friendly dragon with a sense of adventure and unwavering optimism. He is willing to help his wheelie friends, making him a much-loved leader.

Bella: Bella is Chorlton's best friend, who accompanying him on adventures. She is bothsupportive and resourceful, balancing Chorlton’s enthusiasm.

Brum: Brum is the wise one who serves as a mentor to Chorlton and Bella. He imparts guidance, helping the young wheels navigate their challenges.

Fenella the Witch is always trying to bring misery wherever she goes. She has some support from a telescope, which advises her on magic. She has a range of minions, including Spikers (sinister conker shells with eyes that roll everywhere) and toadies (toadstools with similar looks, which travel by bobbing through the ground). I love Fenella.

Merchandise

The popularity of Chorlton and the Wheelies led to a range of spin offs aimed at capturing the series’ charm. Everything from toys and books to clothing and stationery, fans could bring the colourful world into their world.

These creative designs of the characters, reminiscent of classic British animation, contributed to the appeal of the merchandise.

Fun Facts

• The main character gets his name from the area where Cosgrove Hall Films are located in Manchester.

• Wheels were used instead of walking, as walking is difficult to achieve when using stop motion, so the animators decided to use wheels for most characters.

• Fenella the Witch has a surname, Fellorick.

• The show sold to several different countries where its simple format proved successful.

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