Southbank Publishing has released a richly illustrated book — a part-history, part-tribute, part-critical analysis of the Halas and Batchelor Cartoon Studio, Britain’s leading and most influential animation company between 1940-1995. It draws on the archives of the Halas & Batchelor Collection and looks at the key works of the studio, including ANIMAL FARM, Britain’s first full length animated feature; THE TALES OF HOFFNUNG, with the legendary Peter Sellers; AUTOBAHN, featuring the music of Kraftwerk; and BUTTERFLY BALL, with the work of Beatles illustrator, Alan Aldridge.

Established writers, including Giannalberto Bendazzi and John Canemaker, have contributed to the book, which includes a forward by Oscar-winning creator of WALLACE & GROMIT Nick Park. The also book features an autobiographical account by Vivien Halas — daughter of John Halas and Joy Batchelor, director of The Halas & Batchelor Collection — as well as critical insights by Loughborough University professor of animation Paul Wells, Richard Holliss and Jim Walker.

The 224-page book is selling for £19.99. For more information, visit www.southbankpublishing.com/animation.