Mr Blake, famed for his illust-rations for Roald Dahl's books, is staging an exhibition at Nunnington Hall, near Helmsley, along with three friends, Michael Foreman, Emma Chichester Clark and The Times cartoonist Peter Brookes.

He travelled up from London for the day with Mr Foreman and Ms Chichester Clark to see the show, which features more than 100 pictures on the upper floor of the 17th century manor house.

The three artists held a book-signing at Nunnington Hall before taking part in a question and answer session ahead of their return to the capital.

Mr Blake, 75, who was appointed the first Children's Laureate in 1999, has forged another successful career as a curator since the 1990s and has organised exhibitions at a host of venues, including the National Gallery, the British Library and the Musée du Petit Palais in Paris.

He said: "I have exhibited at Nunnington Hall before back in 2004, so I know it is a wonderful location. It is great to be back, and the pictures do look truly wonderful up on the walls.

"It's a real pleasure and a privilege to be able to take part in this show alongside three artists and friends whom I have known and admired for many years – each of them, in their own different ways, at the forefront of our profession.

"My job does continue to be so interesting; people ask me if I enjoy it, and of course I do."

All the works in the exhibition – staged in association with the Chris Beetles Gallery, London – are for sale. Prices range from £100 to £3,500.

Nunnington Hall property manager Simon Lee said: "We are really pleased to be showcasing work by some of the greatest names in illustration this summer . The range of work is fantastic."

The exhibition, Quentin Blake and Friends, runs until Sunday, September 7.