Bagpuss co-creator Peter Firmin's freedom of Canterbury

Mr Firmin is the co-creator of children's TV favourites such as Bagpuss and The Clangers

The co-creator of the children's TV series, Bagpuss, is to be awarded the freedom of a Kent city.

Peter Firmin, who created the show with his business partner Oliver Postgate, is being honoured by Canterbury City Council for his "outstanding work."

The pair were also behind other favourites including Ivor the Engine and The Clangers.

Mr Postgate, who died in 2008 at the age of 83, set up the production company Smallfilms, with Mr Firmin.

Much of their work was produced in a makeshift studio in a barn in Blean, near Canterbury.

Mr Firmin will receive the award alongside Michael Head, the managing director of a furniture manufacturing company.

Crown Products has been based in Herne Bay for more than 60 years.

The local authority said the pair had enhanced the image of the Canterbury district. They will receive the honour at the city's Guildhall later.

Previous recipients include the Prince of Wales, Lord Carey of Clifton and Terry Waite.