Not left out in the cold: The Teletubbies

"Brooklyn Beckham is a keen fan of the Tweenies and his favourite characters are Milo and Fizz."

The Teletubbies, which were launched in 1997, have made more than �1 billion in merchandising in 120 countries. The show's success paved the way for other BBC shows to be launched as global brands.

Tweenies, which came onto the scene two years later, are aimed at an older audience than the Teletubbies, who released their own single and album in 1998.

Mr Gavin believes the Teletubbies' position in childrens' hearts is safe from the Tweenies' attack.

'Unique' Teletubbies

"The Teletubbies will go on forever because they are are a unique product. We're happy to have two global products," he said.

He said of the Tweenies' progress: "Twenty-five countries is very good at this stage.

"It has started in France and Spain, and a lot of the smaller countries, like Slovenia and Croatia, will build up the numbers, usually in a couple of years."

Profits will initially cover production costs, and the excess is then split between the BBC and Tell-Tale Productions, the independent company which makes the show.

Tell-Tale's managing director Karl Woolley is expected to become a multi-millionaire through the deal, although Mr Gavin would only say the settlement was "extremely generous to both parties".

Mr Woolley added: "My wife's very happy."