BBC1 adapts Branestawm novel

The BBC will air an adaptation of Norman Hunter’s Professor Branestawm children’s books, starring comedian Harry Hill in his first BBC1 acting role.

Professor Branestawm (working title) will be a one-hour special adapted by actor and author Charlie Higson (Fast Show, Young Bond series).

It will revolve around the inventor and a safety-obsessed local councillor, who tries to get him kicked out of the village claiming he is a dangerous nuisance.

Professor Branestawm was commissioned for BBC1 by controller Charlotte Moore, controller of comedy commissioning Shane Allen and Myfanwy Moore, controller of BBC Comedy Production.

The programme is being produced by the pubcaster’s in-house comedy unit, with Ben Farrell (Toast of London, Reggie Perrin) attached as exec producer.

The show’s producer is Rosemary McGowan (Jonathan Creek, Lapland, Happiness) and director is Sandy Johnson (Harry & Paul, Benidorm, Jonathan Creek).