Lancashire legend Nick Park's Shaun the Sheep could be named after a storm
The Met Office is asking people to choose between Shaun and Timmy for the 2026/27 storm season
The Met Office is offering the public the chance to vote for a future storm name through an innovative partnership with Aardman, the creators of Shaun the Sheep.
From 19th to 21st August, weather enthusiasts and fans of Shaun the Sheep can vote via the Met Office social media channels for either Shaun or Timmy to join the official storm names list for the 2026/27 season.
Nick Park, hailing from Preston in Lancashire, created Aardman's iconic character Shaun, making him a fitting ambassador for both creativity and storm awareness.
The collaboration aims to enhance public understanding of the importance of storm names as a tool for safety by combining Met Office expertise with Aardman's storytelling.
Holly Clements, Met Office Head of Warnings and Guidance, explained the significance of storm naming: "Naming storms helps our weather warnings reach more people and encourages the public to take notice when severe weather is approaching."
Aardman's 50th anniversary celebrations coincide with the upcoming release of Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom, arriving in UK cinemas on 18th September.
Amy Pearson from Aardman expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, noting the unique opportunity it presents for fun and meaningful engagement regarding severe weather impacts.
Following the vote, the result will be announced on 21st August, with the complete 2026/27 storm names list released on 1st September by the Met Office and their partners.
The collaboration offers a creative way to connect the world of Mossy Bottom Farm with crucial public safety messages, encouraging community conversations about preparedness for severe weather.