Two Northern Ireland based production companies have secured commissions for new shows with Channel 4.
Part funded by Northern Ireland Screen, Belfast-based Tern and Newry-based Big Mountain Productions answered a brief from Head of Daytime and Features at the broadcaster, resulting in commissions starting productions shortly.
Big Mountain has been commissioned to make a new four-part series, The Country House Auction for More 4, and Tern is to celebrate Tiny Islands over four episodes for Channel 4.
In pictures: See inside former Co Down bank's transformation as part of BBC show
Richard Williams, Chief Executive of Northern Ireland Screen, said: "Last year we entered a partnership with Channel 4 to support and grow the production sector in Northern Ireland.
"The More4 Northern Ireland scheme was designed to find a new returnable commission for a local indie. It is testament to the wealth of creative talent we have here that we are now announcing not one, but two commissions.
"Our congratulations go to Tern and Big Mountain, and we look forward to seeing both shows when they hit our screens."
Tern TV will celebrate Britain’s tiniest islands through their new series - across each episode, viewers will learn about the past inhabitants, from saints to prisoners of war, and meet the extraordinary people, from farmers and fishermen, artists and monks, who live and work on these rugged and breath-taking landscapes today.
This remarkable series will celebrate these small but perfectly formed worlds, delving into the gripping local history and sharing the traditions and folklore of the communities who live there.
Big Mountain Productions' The Country House Auction will follow a selection of unique and one-of-a-kind items as they are brought to auction from stately home clearances, castles or private collections.
Past owners and prospective rival buyers will share why the objects are so important to them as antique experts will offer their views on the value and significance of each item.
Jo Street, Channel 4’s Head of Daytime and Features, added: "From Derry Girls to Britain’s Most Expensive Houses, we are proud to have a long and collaborative relationship with the brilliant indies in Northern Ireland.
"It is great to commission not one but two creative new series with our partners at Northern Ireland Screen."
READ NEXT:
Derry Girls nominated for three top accolades at National Comedy Awards
Northern Irish film nominated for 'Best Live Action Short' at the Oscars
BBC series to celebrate Northern Ireland’s growing food and drink scene
New BBC NI show to follow people on a mission to restore buildings of our past
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here. To sign up to our FREE newsletters, see here.
