Two new network dramas – one set in Glasgow, the other in Edinburgh – have been commissioned from BBC Scotland.
Case Histories – a six-part series, set in the Scottish capital, adapted from Kate Atkinson’s detective mysteries – and Young James – a three-part dramatisation of vet, James Herriot’s student days in Glasgow – have been commissioned for BBC One.
The pair – set to be filmed over the next nine months and due to transmit next year – join upcoming network productions made recently through BBC Scotland, including Single Father, featuring David Tennant and Lip Service, with Laura Fraser.
Says Anne Mensah, BBC Scotland Head of Drama: “These two new dramas are great projects for us to work on and along with Single Father and Lip Service should give audiences both here in Scotland and throughout the rest of the UK compelling stories to watch over the next year or so.”
Young James is the first commission for Glasgow-based drama company, KoCo Drama, following its launch last year as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Shed Media.
Comments Kate Croft, who heads up the new company: “We are thrilled and honoured to be making this drama that sees James Herriot embark on his odyssey to qualify as a vet in what is a fascinating period in history.”
The BBC’s director of vision, Jana Bennett, meanwhile heralded the commissions as a sign of the broadcaster’s continuing commitment to the nations and regions.
“We have already started moving production out across the UK, building real centres of excellence in the nations and English regions. That was a first step.
“The BBC will now sharpen its focus on ensuring its content reflects the nations and communities of the UK accurately and authentically.”
