Children's TV stalwart Sooty the bear is set to stop off for a show in Worcester on his '75th Birthday Spectacular' tour across the UK.

Sooty, joined by companions Sweep & Soo, and presenter Richard Cadell, will bring their unique brand of fun to 42 UK venues.

Worcester's Swan Theatre will host the beloved bear on Friday, April 5.

<hr>

Read more: Metal Box site of love story for diamond Worcester couple

<hr>

The Sooty Show – the world's longest running children's TV programme – kicked off the celebratory tour on October 21 at Blackpool Tower Circus.

Richard Cadell, Sooty's right-hand man for 25 years, shared some tour details in a Q&A.

He said: "This tour is different as it is Sooty‘s 75th birthday, so we want all the audience to feel like they are guests at a big party.

"There will be lots of games, audience participation, dances and prizes".

Mr Cadell also hinted at surprise appearances from the likes of Butch, Ramsbottom, and little cousin Scampi.

As for Sooty's legendary water pistol antics, he confirmed the tradition is still very much alive, saying: "Sooty will absolutely have his brand-new super soaker ready, so anybody sat anywhere near the front will definitely need a poncho!"

Reflecting on his experiences as the companion of Sooty, who was voted the British public's favourite childhood TV character, Mr Cadell said: "It’s hard to believe that for the last two and a half decades, I’ve made a living having pies put in my face and talking to myself!".

Recalling some of Sooty's highlights, Mr Cadell reminisced: "Seeing Charles and Camilla laugh at Sooty and Sweep’s antics is something I’ll never forget."

When asked about the secret of Sooty's enduring success, he attributed it to the show's simplicity and familiarity, saying: "I think all of us, including the children watching, know what’s going on under the table and because of that we can enjoy it for the simple thing that it is."

Talking about his favourite part of the tour, Mr Cadell said: "the real magic happens after the show when we take Sooty into the foyer to meet all the children and adults!".