The original Punch and Judy theatre set used by legendary children’s entertainer Bert Bradford is going under the hammer.
The set, which delighted children for over 40 years, will go to auction today (9 Jul).
It is expected to sell for over £1,000.
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From the 1920s to the 1960s, Mr Bradford was a household name across the West Country.
He captivated generations of children with the classic tale of Mr Punch, Judy, the policeman, a crocodile and a string of sausages.
The show toured carnivals and major events in Bristol, Bath, and Somerset, becoming a summer holiday staple on Weston beach.
The auction lot includes the tent and stage, all the props, including a hangman’s noose, and even a Mr Punch voice changer.
The lucky bidder will also get two show boards to inform excited children and their parents about the timing of the next show.
The set, acquired from Mr Bradford upon his retirement in 1965, is reportedly still in fine condition, as noted by auctioneer John Rolfe.
It includes puppets and props that hark back to the Victorian era, having been a part of the show long before Mr Bradford began his act a century ago.
Mr Bradford expanded the collection with additional characters and puppets in the 1920s, but the whole set dates back approximately 100 years.
“We’re delighted to auction a complete Punch and Judy Show set, with all puppets, tent, show times and an original letter of purchase from famous Bristol Professor Bert Bradford,” Rolfe said.
“The set comes directly from the vendor at no reserve but could fetch more than £1,000.”
Originating from the Italian puppet character Pulcinella from the 16th century, Punch and Judy morphed into a grim, cautionary tale for children.
Mr Punch, known for his violent and misogynistic behaviour, would often be seen beating his wife and baby, ultimately facing justice at the hands of a policeman.
To provide comic relief, the show included slapstick elements such as a crocodile snatching sausages.
Over time, Punch and Judy became an integral feature of fairs and festivals across the country.
The set is being sold by John Rolfe Auctions near Tetbury, near Stroud, Gloucestershire, as reported by Need To Know.
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