The first image has been released from We're Going on a Bear Hunt, the new animated film set to air on Channel 4 this Christmas; The half hour film will expand the universe of the much-loved Michael Rosen book illustrated by Helen Oxenbury. Olivia Colman (Broadchurch, Peep Show, Fleabag, The Night Manager), Pam Ferris (Matilda, Call the Midwife) and Mark Williams (Harry Potter, The Fast Show, Father Brown) will bring the brand new characters of Mum, Grandma and Dad to life.

Michael Rosen, who voices the bear in the 30-minute animation, said "I think it's always wrong to want an adaptation to be a strict adaptation. I know that's mad but the point is, a book is a book, a film is a film, a radio programme is a radio programme. It is a new creation and so you have to go with the new rhythm and idea. Animation does very special things, it can create things that aren’t real and make you think they’re real in a very moving way."

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt follows the intrepid adventures of siblings Stan, Katie, Rosie, Max, the baby and Rufus the dog, who decide one day to go on an adventure in search of bears. Coming up against a host of obstacles the family ventures through whirling snowstorms, thick oozing mud and dark forests on their ambitious quest. But when Rosie and Rufus become detached from the rest of the party it looks like bear-hunting might not be such fun after all...

In other C4 news, the channel has purchased the American sitcom Kevin Can Wait, which stars Kevin James (The King of Queens) and charts the ups and downs of newly-retired police officer Kevin, who is looking forward to spending more quality time with his family. But he quickly discovers he faces tougher challenges at home than he ever did on the streets. The series had a very successful launch on CBS earlier this month and is one of the most popular comedies on the network. It will air on E4 in the UK.