Raymond Briggs has sadly died at the age of 88.
The star is best known for his wordless children’s picture book The Snowman which was first published in 1978 by Hamish Hamilton in the UK.
The popular book was later published by Random House in the United States in November of the same year.
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A statement from Raymond’s family said: “We know that Raymond’s books were loved by and touched millions of people around the world, who will be sad to hear this news.
Drawings from fans – especially children’s drawings – inspired by his books were treasured by Raymond and pinned up on the wall of his studio.
(Image: Popperfoto via Getty Images)
“He lived a rich and full life, and said he felt lucky to have had both his wife Jean, and his partner of over 40 years Liz in his life.
“He shared his love of nature with Liz on South Downs walks and on family holidays to Scotland and Wales. He also shared his sense of fun and craziness with his family, and with his family of artist friends – at get-togethers, fancy dress parties and summer picnics in the garden.”
The family also mentioned that Raymond had an “irreverent humour” who enjoyed practical jokes.
“He played practical jokes and enjoyed them being played on him. All of us close to him knew his irreverent humour – this could be biting in his work when it came to those in power. He liked the Guardian editorial describing himself as an ‘iconoclastic national treasure’.”
In 1982, The Snowman became a British animated television film which included the song We’re Walking In The Air sang by a young Howard Blake.
Raymond’s other publications include When The Wind Blows, Father Christmas and Ethel and Ernest to name a few.
Since his death was announced, fans have taken to Twitter to share their tributes.
One person tweeted: “RIP Raymond Briggs. A life well lived and a rich legacy left behind. Thanks for being part of my childhood and countless others….”
(Image: Huddersfield Examiner)
Another chimed: “Oh, so sad about Raymond Briggs. Such a staple of my childhood, and adulthood in fact. So many wonderful stories too many favourites to choose from but this one fits with the current temperatures. Thank you, Raymond.”
While a third said: “Raymond Briggs was one of the most wonderful people I had the pleasure to meet. I’m going to re-read Father Christmas over breakfast.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
