THE FAST AND THE FARMER(ISH): BBC THREE ANNOUNCE NEW COMPETITION SERIES

With 11 million people living in rural areas of the UK and about a quarter of these under 30, The Fast And The Farmer(ish) provides a glimpse into the lives of young farmers, in an entertaining new competitive series which showcases tractor-driving talent.

Presented by Tom Pemberton, each episode of this 7x30 series from Alleycats pits two teams of petrol heads and their ‘souped up’ tractors against each other in a series of entertaining and imaginative challenges that puts their driving skill and vehicle power to the test. Across the series, teams from Wales, England, Northern Ireland and Scotland will compete via heats, semis and a grand final, with the winner claiming overall bragging rights for their nation.

Fiona Campbell, Controller, BBC Three, says: “The quality of ideas from the Northern Ireland sector has been astonishing and deciding which idea we took to series was not easy. It’s exactly why this collaborative partnership exists and we’re really excited about The Fast And The Farmer(ish) and what it will bring to BBC Three. We can’t wait to see the new pilots and we already know we’re in for an equally tough decision deciding which one we take forward.”

Eddie Doyle, Head of Content Commissioning, BBC Northern Ireland, says: “Alleycats have a done an amazing job with The Fast And The Farmer(ish), showing how rural competitiveness can be converted into high-octane entertainment, that fits perfectly with BBC Three’s core brand. We’re delighted that our work with BBC Three and Northern Ireland Screen has led to this wonderful new series, and are equally excited about the upcoming set of pilots.

Richard Williams, Chief Executive of Northern Ireland Screen, says: “We’re delighted to continue working with BBC Northern Ireland and BBC Three on this initiative. Our local indies are bursting with talent and great ideas and it is wonderful to see such a wide range of new formats coming through. We offer our huge congratulations to Alleycats and look forward to seeing The Fast And The Farmer(ish) when it hits our screens. We wish Stellify and Waddell good luck as they take their fast food and fashion formats to pilot stage.”