Children’s favourite Balamory is to return to TV screens with the first new episodes in two decades set to be shown next year.
Filming has begun on a new series, which will blend familiar characters such as nursery teacher Miss Hoolie, played by Julie Wilson Nimmo, and PC Plum, portrayed by Andrew Agnew, with a host of new faces.
Brand new characters will include scientist and inventor Ava Potts, played by Danielle Jam; the Harbour Master, played by William Andrews; and local vet Dr Ollie, played by Carl Spencer.
Filming is underway on location in Tobermory, the real-life town on the Isle of Mull that inspired the show’s iconic setting.
Two new series have been commissioned, each with ten new 14-minute episodes.
The “revamped series” will air next year on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer.
Originally produced in 2002, Balamory was a huge hit with preschool kids over four series before it ended in 2005.
The show became a staple of early childhood entertainment, with “home-grown storytelling” about the much-loved nursery school and the small island community that surrounds it.
“Lovingly reimagined for today’s families”, the new series promises to “retain its original spirit while introducing fresh elements to captivate young viewers”.
The BBC confirmed that, at its heart, will remain the charming fictional town of Balamory, “where brightly-coloured houses cluster around a scenic harbour and life revolves around the nursery school and its caring teacher”.
Kate Morton, Senior Head of Children’s Commissioning 0-6 BBC Children’s and Education, said: “It’s wonderful to see some of the original cast returning alongside new faces, creating a perfect mix of nostalgia and discovery for families to enjoy together.
“This vibrant new series will delight both children and the grown-ups who remember it fondly.”
