Fans of Wallace and Gromit could soon be able to gaze on giant replicas of their animated heroes, if plans to erect a statue of the pair get the go-ahead.

The Oscar-winning duo's place of origin, Bristol, wants to hold a civic reception - complete with Wallace's favourite Wensleydale cheese - and arrange for a bronze or marble statue marking the success of Aardman Animation of Bristol, creators of the films featuring the cardigan-wearing Wallace and his dogged companion.

The city council has backed a call to launch a public fund for the commemoration.