This story, of the most fantasmagorical car in the history of everything, was written by lan Fleming. Yes, the same man who wrote James Bond! The book was published under a pseudonym in 3 parts in 1964-5, and was filmed in 1968 by Disney studios, with a cast including Dick van Dyke, Barbara Windsor & Benny Hill. The screenplay was largely by that genius of children's literature, Roald Dahl. At that time Disney studios employed the Sherman brothers, Robert and Richard, as in-house composers, and they were given the job of writing music for the film. The title song was nominated for a "Best Song" Oscar.

The real star of the film, of course, was the car Chitty Chitty Bang Bang - which still exists in full working order (though it doesn't fly much), is taxed and MOT'd, and can be seen at charity events from time to time. Look out for number plate GEN 11. Design of the car was partly by Roland Emmet, who created several other crazy inventions for the film (as well as Nottingham's own water clock in the Victoria Centre).

More life has been breathed into the story by the West End show which opened last April - and at the time of writing is still running.