When did children's TV start

A. 1950 was the year that children's television came of age. It began with Watch With Mother, the brainchild of legendary Freda Lingstrom, who became head of children's television at the BBC. It was the first coherent combination of education and entertainment specifically for very small children, and each day had its very own flavour. Together with Mary Adams, of the BBC, Miss Lingstrom created Andy Pandy.

Q. When was Andy Pandy first broadcast

A. Andy Pandy was first seen on July 11, 1950. Maria Bird brought Andy Pandy out to play. Opera singer Gladys Whitred sang the songs and Audrey Atterbury (mother of Paul Atterbury of Antiques Roadshow fame on whom Andy Pandy was rumoured to have been modelled) and Molly Libson pulled the strings. Only 26 original episodes were made. They were seen time and time again and in 1970, 13 new episodes were made in colour.

Q. Is Andy Pandy being remade

A. The BBC has announced Andy Pandy will return after an absence of 28 years. Using the latest animation techniques, the classic children's favourite will get a modern makeover, shedding his puppet strings and leaving the playroom he used to share with pals Looby loo and Teddy.

As in the original, Andy and his pals will remain silent with a narrator guiding viewers through their adventures. In keeping with today's political correctness and fragmented society, each live in their own house overlooking the village green. They will be joined by three new characters.

Manchester-based animators Cosgrove Hall has been commissioned to create the new series, which is expected to hit our screens some time next year. It is expected to cost the BBC 1 million to make. It is hoping to emulate the success of the Teletubbies, the Tweenies and the relaunched Bill and Ben.

Q. When did Bill and Ben, the Flowerpot Men start

A. In 1952 the Flowerpot Men were added to Watch With Mother on Wednesdays. The puppets were made out of flowerpots - their hands were gardening gloves and their feet hobnailed boots. Filming originally took place in a shed at the Lime Grove Studio complex, later moving to a purpose-built studio in Television Centre. Peter Hawkins was the voice of Bill and Ben, and the original puppets are now in the Museum of London.

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By Katharine MacColl