Auctioneers are go for rare Thunderbirds doll
It has been hidden away at the bottom of a wardrobe for the past 30 years.
But now one of the most important pieces of film and entertainment memorabilia of the 21st century is expected to fetch up to £20,000 when it goes under the hammer at an auction in Shropshire.
A Lady Penelope Crichton-Ward puppet, which is believed to be rare and one of the most complete puppets to ever be offered on the open market, will feature at the auction held by Whitchurch-based Trevanion and Dean.
It was consigned to the auctioneers by the relatives of its owner who has recently died.
The figure, an original AP Films, Century 21 Productions puppet dating from 1964 to 1968, would have been used within the original, pioneering Thunderbirds films that came to define the 1960's.
Auctioneer Christina Trevanion said the figure was the "jewel in the crown" of the owner's collection, but because of its immense rarity was kept hidden away at the bottom of his wardrobe for the last 30 years.
"There have been many replicas made of the original puppets, and so it has been important to establish its authenticity before offering Lady Penelope on the open market," she said.
"We have had four of the world's leading authorities on supermarionation authenticate the figure, including some of the original puppet operators and puppet makers on the 1960's Thunderbirds series.
"It has been a fascinating process to be involved in and has taken me far and wide, meeting some wonderful people including Sylvia Anderson's daughter Dee, whose eyes provided the model for Lady P's eyes."
With plenty of pre-sale interest already, including international interest in the rare figure, buyers are expected to flock to the saleroom from all over the world for the auction on August 20.
For inquiries contact Sophie Heilgendorff on (01948) 800202 or email sophie@trevanionanddean.com
