It may be a bit early to think about snow but The Snowman, an enchanting exhibition for all the family, comes to Hitchin from Saturday, 5 October, so you can plan a visit on a wet winter weekend or October half-term holiday!

The book, first published in 1978, was created and illustrated by Raymond Briggs, drawn only with pencil crayons in a comic strip format.

Then in 1982, the classic picture book was adapted into a 26-minute animated film. Extending the picture book story was relatively easy for the talented creative team, who used their imagination to extend the Snowman's night of exploration – including a meeting with Father Christmas.

Raymond Briggs never intended for The Snowman to be a festive tale - the original story doesn't even mention Christmas!

Ros Allwood, Cultural Services Manager at North Herts Council, said: "Everyone loves The Snowman, well perhaps people of a certain age! But the more recent The Snowman and the Snowdog has reimagined it for the younger generations. Its origins are fascinating and the way it was created for TV and now shown every Christmas on Channel 4 is quite a legacy.

"Like the book, the short film has delighted audiences across the world over the years. This exhibition will be interesting for children and their parents and grandparents alike." 

North Herts Museum is located on Brand Street, Hitchin, open Tue-Sat 10.30am-4.30pm and Sun 11am-3pm, this exhibition and general admission is free. The Snowman™ is due to close on 12 January.

For more information check out @northhertsmuseum on Facebook and Instagram, @nhertsmuseum on Twitter, visit the North Herts Museum website or call 01462 474554.