Quick question
 

Does anyone happen to know who narrated the 1977 Rankin/Bass version of The Hobbit?

The only narrator I recall was John Huston, who was also Gandalf.

Ok thanks.

The Credits on the radio version say Bill Nighe is that the same Bill Nighe from Love Actually?

Yes.

There were many things to be displeased about that cartoon version, including the way the elves were portrayed visually (not to mention their Russian accents), but one thing I remember about it that I really liked was the way it portrayed the moment Bilbo burst through the Mirkwood canopy and saw all the butterflies, and the accompanying song.

I actually liked the Hobbit the only odd creature was Gollum... I mean the wood elves were strange however except being extremely shortened I felt the key moments stayed in the only real bit left out was the Arkenstone... That song gets me every time love it!

Yeah, that was a wonderful scene and I remember it well. Watched the Hobbit for the first (and only) time not that long ago and found it quite charming, disregarding oddities such as the salamander-like Gollum. Bet I would've loved it as a kid.

I put it in when I want a relaxing movie it's short and sweet but that scene is very powerful.