Following the success of the BBC’s recent Poldark television series, which is based on the novel series by Winston Graham, the author’s descendants are attempting to trademark the name in order to prevent sales of unofficial merchandise.
Currently, fans of the series can purchase cushion covers, novelty mugs, keyrings and a range of other items through various retail websites.
Set in Cornwall, Poldark was a huge success for the BBC and it is now showing on PBS in America, in the same slot that helped Downton Abbey become an international success.
However, Winston Graham’s family now intends to stop people from using the Poldark name without obtaining permission from them first.
They have submitted a request for a trademark that will cover a multitude of potential products such as jewellery, tea and coffee.
Christine and Mike Pearce recently tried to register the Poldark name for their own line of cider and jams, which they sell in Newquay.
Three days after their application, Winston Graham’s literary estate put in a separate trademark request for the name under 13 categories, and Mr and Mrs Pearce’s request has since been blocked by a complaint.
Mr Pearce said: “Cornwall is a major reason why the programme has been so successful.
“I am sure that this matter will be resolved, benefiting both Cornwall and the estate of Winston Graham.”
The author’s family will have to release their own Poldark products for the trademark to remain active, as they cannot use it just to block others.
Mammoth Screen, the production company behind the BBC programme, has reportedly expressed an interest in launching a product line if its trademark request is granted, to help fund the second series.
Winston Graham’s son, Andrew, said: “The name Poldark was invented by my father.
“The point is to license a range of products of a quality and kind to reflect appropriately the TV show and the books.
“I am personally delighted that business in Cornwall has been boosted by the success of the series and if anyone wants to use the name Poldark to promote their line of business, that is terrific – provided of course that they take out an appropriate licence.”