Fans of the much-loved animated characters Wallace and Gromit were able to see the plasticine models up close this week – and helped St Austell Brewery Charitable Trust raise £1,200 for charity in the process
Tickets for the Brewery’s special fundraiser sold out so quickly, a second event was held the following morning to allow as many people as possible to attend.

My Life With Wallace and Gromit was an event with Aardman’s creative director Merlin Crossingham, who talked about his adventures with the animated stars, showed videos of the unique animation process and answered questions about the duo.

Merlin Crossingham has worked for Aardman animations for 15 years since the early days of Wallace and Gromit, initially as an animator and more recently as creative director. As well as Wallace and Gromit he has played a key role in the creation of many familiar TV advertisements as well as on feature films such as Chicken Run and Curse of the Were Rabbit.

Vicky Crossingham, chair of the St Austell Brewery Charitable Trust and Merlin’s stepmother, said: “They were magical events and we learned so much about fascinating world of animation. We had lots of true Wallace and Gromit fans – people absolutely love the characters.

“Merlin was enthralling to listen to and had the audience in the palm of his hand. We are all very grateful to him for making it such a truly memorable event and for helping us to raise £1,200 for the Precious Lives Appeal.”

St Austell Brewery Charitable Trust has raised more than £250,000 since it was started in 2003, with donations going to well-known charities, local good causes and individuals who need help.

The Trust was re-launched with renewed vigour last summer and hopes to raise £50,000 in the next year alone.

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