 Noddy is a popular kids' TV character the world over |
Hit Entertainment, home to Bob the Builder, has withdrawn its offer for UK media firm Chorion, owners of Noddy and the Mr Men characters. In February, Chorion accepted an offer of 425 pence per share from management backed by private equity firm 3i.
But on Friday, it said it would delay a shareholder vote on the proposed acquisition, to give more time to other potential bidders.
Hit, bought by private equity firm Apax Partners in 2005, is now ruled out.
Entertainment Right, which owns characters Postman Pat and Basil Brush, has said it is also considering whether to launch a bid for Chorion.
New York-based Classic Media, which owns the rights to Lassie, is another potential bidder and may also express an interest.
One-Minute World News 
News services
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 