Stephen Fry-narrated short film made in Cheshire recognised

Lorna Gibson with Mr Bear <i>(Image: Toots Design)</i>
Lorna Gibson with Mr Bear (Image: Toots Design)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

A HEART-WARMING short-filmed created by a self-taught Cheshire animator has received international recognition.

Author and illustrator Lorna Gibson, and her studio Toots Design, have won silver at the second annual Collision Film Awards this summer.

The 42-year-old, from Tarporley, is the creator of the beloved Mr Bear series of short, handcrafted, animated films, all of which are narrated by Stephen Fry.

And her latest instalment of the series - Mr Bear's Picnic - was shortlisted for an award alongside studios such as Disney and Nickelodeon.

And, while she didn't win the top prize, Lorna still received acclaim for her work.

She said: "It's an honour to have Mr Bear's Picnic recognised at the Collision Film Awards.

Lorna on set with Mr BearLorna on set with Mr Bear (Image: Toots Design) "I have always believed in the ripple effect of kindness and your power to brighten someone’s day with the simplest of things.

"Mr Bear’s Picnic very much celebrates this and I hope it will warm the hearts of those who watch it.”

Mr Bear’s Picnic is a heart-warming story set in the corner of the forest.

Mr Bear’s dearest friend, Mouse, feels a bit blue. As she slips out for a quiet walk by herself to clear her mind, Mr Bear is unsure where she’s gone and a little worried about his friend.

He goes to find her and cheer her up with all her favourite things wrapped up in a picnic basket.

Lorna added: "This gentle story reminds us of our power to brighten someone’s day, just by being there, just by being yourself, just by being a friend."

Recognising Lorna's efforts, Randeep Katari, general manager of the Collision Awards, said: "Lorna’s work has excelled in its category, standing out as one of the most creative, stylistic and exciting pieces of work from across the globe.

"This award is a testament to the skill and vision of its creators and entire team."

Mr Bear’s Picnic was enhanced by the work of Buckinghamshire composer Andrew Pickering, who wrote and performed its soundtrack, and Cheshire lighting professional Daniel Beckett, each of whom agreed to support the project at no cost.

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos