From 1968 to 1980, there was a hipper alternative to Blue Peter. That show was Magpie. Magpie is spoken about in hushed, enthused reverie by those that watched. So it’s surprising that it’s never seen a DVD reissue… that is, of course, until now. The DVD is out on 29th June and should retail at £19.99. What do you get for your money? Well, the release contains 12 of the best episodes of the show, with the standard issue bonus features too. Get yourself over the jump and I’ll tell you what they are.

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Magpie was broadcast twice weekly by Thames Television and had a finger very much on the pulse. With the emphasis on fashion, music and fun, Magpie was cooler than the staid mustiness of Blue Peter. The series was presented across its 12 year run by Susan Stranks, Tony Bastable, Pete Brady, Douglas Rae, Mick Robertson, Jenny Hanley and Tommy Boyd. And not forgetting their rather portly mascot – Murgatroyd the Magpie! Out of approximately 1000 episodes made, less than a hundred survive. This volume contains the 1976 Christmas show and an edition broadcast live from Bealieu.

Special Features include ‘My Brother David’, which is from ’71 and showcases the frank and moving portrait of David, a special needs child, as seen through the eyes of his elder sister and well as the first Magpie Annual in PDF format! Great! Now, have a clip with some easy magic tricks at the end!