A+E Networks UK’s History channel has ordered two new factual series to join their lineup. The broadcaster has commissioned Banger Boys from Orion TV and Hoard Hunters from ITV Studios, with both shows receiving 8 episode orders. The commissions are both in genres where History has had success: motoring and archaeology. They also come after the channel posted record ratings in 2012.
Banger Boys follows Sussex-based banger racing team The Dreamers led by champion racer Steve Anscombe. The series provides a unique insight into the world of banger racing in the UK. The series features “spectacular car stunts and on-screen destruction”, with the crew giving old cars a new lease of life returning them to the starting line and transforming cast-off scrap cars into finely tuned racing machines. The executive producers are Sarah Proctor, Rachel Job, Bob Whittaker and Marrisse Whittaker.
Hoard Hunters follows Gordon Heritage and Gary Brun as they team up with archaeologist Mike Webber to embark on a quest to unearth hoards of treasure and unlock historical mysteries. Each week the treasure hunting heroes take on a fresh challenge at a new UK location, heading to sites where previous hoards have been found in an attempt to salvage what may have been left behind and maybe even find a whole new hoard. The series is produced by ITV Studios, with Tim Miller and Rachel Job serving as executive producers.
Speaking of the two new series, Rachel Job, Head of Acquisitions & Commissioning, for History at A+E Networks UK, said: “We’re very excited to add two new original UK commissions, Banger Boys and Hoard Hunters, to HISTORY’s list of varied content, continuing our focus on character driven series that feature amateur enthusiasts who are the best at what they do.”
