Brian Trueman
Brian Trueman (born 16 May 1932, Manchester, England) is a British writer and broadcaster known mainly for his work with the animation studio Cosgrove Hall. He wrote and/or narrated many fondly remembered children's cartoon series during the 1970s and 1980s, including:-
- Chorlton and the Wheelies
- Jamie and the Magic Torch
- Cockleshell Bay
- The Wind in the Willows
- The Treacle People
- Alias the Jester
- DangerMouse
- The Reluctant Dragon
- Count Duckula
- Victor and Hugo
- Truckers
- Budgie the Little Helicopter
- Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends
These cartoons were originally shown on ITV, in its CITV programming slot. However, Brian also briefly presented the BBC's children's film quiz Screen Test, taking over from original host Michael Rodd between 1979 and 1983. Prior to taking up a writing career Brian worked for many years on local programming in the North West, from It's Trueman to Granada Reports. He also had a stint hosting Granada's film review show, Cinema, taking over from Michael Parkinson.
In 1951, in his youth, he appeared on stage for the Urmston Amateur Operatic Society (now the Urmston Musical Theatre) in a production of Merrie England, playing the role of Big Ben.