TV gorilla ad creator joins elite list

A MARKETING mastermind behind iconic adverts, including Cadbury's drumming gorilla, has been recognised as one of the most influential people in his field.

Gareth Goodall, who attended both Oldfields Hall Middle School and Thomas Alleyne's, has been named alongside Kate Moss and Simon Cowell in the 100 most influential people in creative industries.

The 32-year-old, who previously lived in Holly Road, Uttoxeter before moving to East London, is currently head of planning at advertising agency Fallon London.

Gareth said: "I am actually quite embarrassed about it all but at the same time I am really honoured – there are a lot of talented people out there.

"The list started out at about 300 people and from there people had to vote for the top 100. I would like to thank the people who voted for me – I must have been really nice to them at some point."

The top 100 list, compiled by the Independent newspaper, recognised Gareth as one of the five emerging talents in the advertising category.

As well as the Cadbury's gorilla, Fallon was also behind the Skoda "car cake" ad. Gareth, who has worked for Fallon for five years, admitted his team could never be certain what would take off.

He said: "It's just a guy dressed in a gorilla suit, bashing drums along to a Phil Collins' track. "There was always the possibility it could be a disaster but I remember I was in a bar when it was first aired and everybody went quiet. It was a brilliant moment for the advertising world.

"I've been very lucky to get where I am today. Not long after I joined Fallon, the team created a lot of advertisements people now recognise and from then on, I just fell into it, really. I'm lucky that I am doing something I really enjoy."

Gareth was also the brains behind the character "Lucky the Dog" who featured in the More Than insurance commercials.

But he says his proudest achievement was working on the Sony Bravia advert, which saw 250,000 brightly coloured balls fired down a street in San Fransisco.

He said: "It's amazing and so random. Each time, we take it to new and ridiculous levels."

The Nottingham University graduate previously worked for Ogilvy & Mather Advertising.

He added: "I have played an active part in a lot of projects.

"I can remember when I was working on the Christmas Argos adverts which had the Status Quo sound track Whatever You Want overlaid; I spent all Christmas listening to that song.

"I'm very proud to be working among the people I am."

Gareth's other achievements include being nominated as a Face To Watch by the advertising magazine Campaign.

Among the other influential people listed in the top 100 are super model Kate Moss.

Gareth joked: "I bet she is so proud to be in the same list as me – maybe she will take me up on that offer of a drink now."

Fashion designer Stella McCartney, director Danny Boyle, music mogul Simon Cowell and pop star Lily Allen also feature.