News / Aardman
Knighthoods for Aardman co-founders
The founders of Aardman Animations have been knighted for their services to the animation industry, the creative industries and charity.
Peter Lord and David Sproxton, the stop-motion pioneers behind the much-loved Wallace and Gromit, Shaun the Sheep and Chicken Run, said the honour from King Charles was “an extraordinary privilege”.
The pair started the Oscar-winning studio as teenagers when they created a short animated sketch called Aardman, which the BBC bought for its Vision On series.
When receiving their first cheque from the BBC, Lord and Sproxton needed a name for their bank account so in 1972 they registered the name Aardman Animations.
Aardman is celebrating 50 years in the business in 2026 – photo; Aardman
In a joint statement, they said: “We both feel it is an extraordinary privilege and an honour – as well as a complete and utter surprise – to be recognised in this way.
“Whilst the honour is being awarded to us as individuals, it really reflects on Aardman as a company.
“Over 50 years we have worked with hundreds, if not thousands, of brilliant people whose dedication, talent and skills have contributed to making Aardman a globally recognised and multi-award-winning studio, and one regarded by many as a national treasure here in the UK.
“As we accept these awards, we humbly bow and salute all of those who have joined us on this extraordinary journey.”
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Lord and Sproxton are among 1,182 people recognised in this year’s honours list.
Other people with Bristol connections honoured include Julia Donaldson, writer, children’s author, University of Bristol alumna and honorary graduate, who has been awarded a damehood for services to literature.
Heather Frankham, founder of Bud Systems and a University of Bristol alumna, has been honoured an MBE for services to education and skills.
Nirmal Singh, 64, from Bristol, was awarded the BEM for providing thousands of free hot meals for children at Felix Road Adventure Playground.
Environmental campaigner Mary Colwell, 65, has been awarded an MBE for services to nature, reflecting her efforts to protect curlews and improve environmental education.
Mel Bound, founder and chief executive of This Woman Runs, has been appointed an OBE for services to women’s community sport, while Steve Evans, founder of All-Aboard Watersports, received an MBE for services to the community.
Main photo: Jon Craig
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