Private Eye Celebrates Its 50th Anniversary (Pictures)

SLIDESHOW: Private Eye Celebrates Its 50th Anniversary

Private Eye is Britain's best loved, and indeed only, fortnightly satirical magazine. It was founded back in October 1961, so this month turns the grand old age of 50.

The anti-establishment stalwart has weathered decades of change in journalism, with its cheeky cartoons and incisive satire proving a lastingly popular formula. The first edition on the 25 October 1961 had a run of only 300 copies. Now steered by Ian Hislop, its editor of 25 years, it boasts a fortnightly readership of 700,000, according to its website.

Hislop commented on the milestone: "I do not want anyone to think that this is all just a huge celebration of ourselves. Our 50th year is a chance to look back and take a dispassionate view of how marvellous we are."

Here are cartoon highlights from the past three decades and a video insight into the paper-strewn Soho office where it all happens:

Private Eye: The First 50 Years is on display in the V&A from 18 October 2011 to 8 January 2012

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