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Mr Turnip
Conceived by BBC producer Michael Westmore as a companion for the children’s show Whirligig, Mr Turnip was brought to life by Joy Laurey in 1950. An anthropomorphic turnip with a quick wit, sharp mind, and impeccable manners, he became television’s first vegetable star — delighting audiences in his smart coat and ruffled shirt, often joined by friends such as Colonel Beetroot, Sarah Swede, Mimi Melon, the Carrot Twins, and Uncle Spud.
Mr Turnip & Mimi Melon
Mr Turnip in his on set home.
The success of Whirligig and the popularity of Mr Turnip inspired an extraordinary range of merchandise — from annuals, games, and puppets to badges, jigsaws, and children’s books. Produced by a variety of companies across Britain, these colourful collectibles helped cement Mr Turnip’s status as one of television’s first true stars.
Much of the accompanying artwork and design was created by Joy Laurey herself, capturing the wit and charm of her on-screen characters in print. Today, these rare items are cherished pieces of British television history and highlights of the Joy Laurey Archive.
 The company EVB Plastics based in Surrey produced the Beejú Toy Television Set. Small reels of coloured film strips pass through the tv and a bulb lights them up on the screen. There was a Muffin the Mule set among others. Mr Turnip had film strips made for this toy two of which we now hold in the archive. |
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 Deans Rag Book Mr Turnip Hand Puppet Only made in 1954 very sought after. |
 Pelham Puppets Mr Turnip, Sarah Swede and Colonel Beetroot. The same head mould was used for all three. |
 TV Whirligig Annual Mr Turnip |
 Luntoy metal Mr Turnip |
 Whirligig Annual with MR Turnip |
 Twirly book no. 8. Mr Turnip flies around the world. |
 Deans Rag Book Doll 30cm high only made for one year, 1954. |
 Luntoy lead figure of Mr Turnip |
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 This wooden pull along is the only one we've ever seen! Luntoy are well known for there cast metal Mr Turnip. |
 Made by Ariel Productions ltd, These little wooden blocks make up different images of Mr Turnip. |
 Made by Glevum Games and illustrated by Joy. |
 Made by Glevum Games and illustrated by Joy. |
 A card game featuring H.L (Humphrey Lestocq) and Mr Turnips friends. |
 The heads on these puppets often collapse and disintegrate over time. This one is in lovely condition with soft red velvet jacket. |
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 This soap still smells as wonderful as the day it was made. Produced by Zenobia. |
 Some beautiful illustrations by Joy to colour in at home. Made by Ariel Publications. |
 Some beautiful illustrations by Joy to colour in at home. Made by Ariel Publications. |
 A wonderful story of Mr Turnip, some lovely illustrations too. |
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 Made by Tower Press Ltd. |
 A cardboard multi jointed Jumping Jack. Made by Tower Press Ltd |
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