19/08/2009

UTV Invests In Independent Productions

Belfast-based Ulster Television has announced a major investment in commissioning independent programmes for 2010.

Ultimate Ulster, one of the broadcaster's most watched programmes ever, has been recommissioned for a second series by independent production company, Televisionary.

Ultimate Ulster was the best performing programme in its Thursday night slot on UTV across 2007. The second series will return to UTV screens later this autumn.

Hidden Heritage, by Evergreen Media, who specialise in environment productions, will return for series four, with Evergreen Media also producing a special one-hour programme on the 400th anniversary of the Plantations in Ulster for UTV.

The Fabulous Food Adventure by Edge Films will return for a second series of four programmes and a new programme, Glorious Gardens by Green Inc. has been commissioned for a six-part series.

All these independent programmes will be aired in peak-time on UTV.

Michael Wilson, Managing Director of UTV Television, said: "UTV is committed to working with independent producers to bring innovative and popular programming to our audience.

"It is really great to work with so many talented independent production companies."

(KMcA/BMcC)

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