GRADUATES from the Arts University Bournemouth have contributed to two of this year’s most anticipated festive TV treats.

Former students of the respected organisation’s BA (Hons) Animation Production and MA Animation courses have worked on full-length animated feature Ethel and Ernest and the highly-anticipated We’re Going On A Bear Hunt.

Produced by Lupus Films, Ethel and Ernest is based on celebrated author Raymond Briggs’s graphic novel memoir about his parents.

As well as receiving a limited cinema release the film, starring Brenda Blethyn, Jim Broadbent and Luke Treadaway will be shown on BBC One on December 28.

Some of the AUB graduates were employed under the Creative Skillset ‘Trainee Finder’ scheme, which enables animation companies to employ recent graduates and reclaim some of the money. In total, 12 AUB alumni were employed on Ethel and Ernest.

Trainee Ali Guzzo said: “Working at Lupus was a great experience. I felt honoured to be part of Ethel and Ernest working next to people who have already so much experience in this field.”

Fellow trainee Danielle Bethel added: “It has immensely improved my ability to concentrate and maintain the quality of my drawings from the start to the end of the day.”

We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is a Christmas treat from the makers of The Snowman.

The animated adaptation of Michael Rosen’s much-loved book features Olivia Colman, Pam Ferris and Mark Williams.

Dr Paul Ward, Professor of Animation Studies at the university, said: “The Animation team at AUB are delighted to see so many of our graduates - very recent - doing great work on such high-profile projects. It’s testament to the strength of the animation provision and the professionalism of our graduates. We pride ourselves on our strong relationships with industry partners.”