Channel 4 today announces the commission of a one-off documentary delving into the history of beloved children’s character, Winnie-the-Pooh. This year marks the 90th anniversary of the publication of Winnie-the-Pooh, the first collection of Pooh Bear stories. The tales of adventure and friendship in the Hundred Acre Wood written by A A Milne for his son, Christopher Robin, have captured the imaginations of generations of fans around the world.

Alan Titchmarsh has been a life-long devotee of Winnie-the-Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga and friends. In this programme, Alan will set out in search of the history and locations that inspired Milne’s poems and stories and E H Shepard’s memorable illustrations. What was different about these stories and why did so many parents and children fall in love with them?

Through interviews with Ann Thwaite, Milne’s award winning biographer, children’s author Brian Sibley, social historian Hester Barron and journalist Matthew Sweet, Alan investigates and celebrates Winnie-the-Pooh in his 90th year and the legacy he left behind.

Winnie-the-Pooh: the Most Famous Bear in the World (1 x 60’) will TX New Year’s Eve on Channel 4. The programme is commissioned by Lizi Wootton, Commissioning Editor, Features and is made by Glasgow-based production company Finestripe Productions under Executive Producer Katie Lander, produced and directed by Andy Humphries.