Mars makers create history drama

Philip Glenister (left) and John Simm starred in Life on Mars

The creators of hit Life on Mars are to make an archaeological drama series for the BBC.

Bone Kickers, written by Ashley Pharoah and Matthew Graham, will be filmed in Bath later this year and is due to be screened on BBC One next spring.

The drama, which has yet to be cast, focuses on a team whose historical investigations unlock potential dangers and mysteries in the present.

Life on Mars, which finished earlier this year, is being remade for US TV.

In the UK, a sequel to the time-travelling police drama is being made with Spooks star Keeley Hawes.

Called Ashes to Ashes, it will see Philip Glenister reprise his role as politically incorrect DCI Gene Hunt.

'Exciting

Polly Hill, the BBC's commissioning editor for independent drama, said Bone Kickers would make history and archaeology "sexy, accessible and exciting".

Each episode will deal with a different historical period, including the excavation of murdered 18th century slaves and the discovery of the True Cross.

The drama's central character, Gillian, is pitted against her arch-rival, TV historian Daniel Mastif, in the hunt for an archaeological treasure.

Their race will form the backdrop of the first series' climax.