University of Hertfordshire graduates shine in Wallace & Gromit’s Oscar-nominated success
The three Set Dressers and Prop Makers helped make the second most watch programme on Christmas day come to life
Last updated 10th Feb 2025
Three talented graduates from the University of Hertfordshire have played a key role in bringing Aardman’s latest stop-motion masterpiece, Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl, to life.
The film, which became one of the most-watched TV events of Christmas 2024, has now been viewed over 21.6 million times and has secured an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature.
Felix Peever (2017 graduate), Beth Jones (2020 graduate), and Avneet Poonian (2023 graduate) all worked as Set Dressers and Prop Makers on the production.
Their intricate craftsmanship helped create the charming and highly detailed world that fans of Wallace & Gromit adore.
Beth Jones, who was involved in both set dressing and prop making, shared her enthusiasm for the experience: "Working at Aardman on Wallace and Gromit was an incredible experience.
"I felt very fortunate to collaborate with and learn from some of the top professionals in the field.
"I never imagined I would have the opportunity to contribute to such a beloved British classic alongside Directors Nick Park and Merlin Crossingham.
"The sets were a pleasure to work on, as they were filled with props, which made my role even more enjoyable due to the abundance of miniature objects to create."
The film was the second most-watched program on Christmas Day, drawing in nearly 10 million viewers and continuing to captivate audiences worldwide. Its success further solidifies the cultural significance of Wallace & Gromit, proving that the duo remains as beloved as ever.
Stephen Partridge, Dean of the School of Creative Arts at the University of Hertfordshire, said: "We're incredibly proud of our graduates Beth, Felix, and Avneet, who contributed to the most-watched film on TV this year.
"It's inspiring to see their talents and the skills they honed at Herts brought to life on the big screen, joining an ever-growing list of alumni making their mark in the creative industries."