Conservators race against time to save film cels of classic Disney characters

Researchers are analysing material on which early Disney cartoons were inked to find best way to save and store the animations

Hands clasped, silver slippers together and with an air of gentle condescension, Snow White looks like the epitome of a Disney princess. Except there's a hitch: across her face and dress run unmistakable cracks.

While Disney's cartoon characters have an indelible place in popular culture, the material that propelled many of the vintage heroes to fame is proving less durable.