MORE than one million viewers tuned in to watch the first episode of a documentary series spotlighting the ‘incredible people’ of the Channel Islands.
The first of six episodes of Jersey & Guernsey, a UK-produced show narrated by Alan Titchmarsh, aired on Channel 5 this week.
Viewership figures revealed that 1.1 million watched eighth-generation Jersey farmer Phil Le Maistre use a 100-year-old hand plough to harvest the season’s Jersey Royals.
The show, which Visit Jersey also worked on, promises to ‘delve into the lives of some of the islands’ most colourful residents’ as they prepare for the ‘busy summer ahead’.
Episodes feature appearances from makers of La Robeline Cider Richard and Sarah Matlock, ceramicist Claire Haithwaite, the Jersey Tea Company and the Sprouts Farm Club team.
The operator of Guernsey’s Petit Train, Andy Furniss, also appears.
Tricia Warwick, Visit Jersey chief executive, said her organisation was ‘delighted’ to work with Channel 5 and Daisybeck Studios ‘to bring this fantastic new series about the Channel Islands to a national audience’.
She added: ‘The programme captures the stunning landscapes, incredible people and fascinating stories that make Jersey such a special place. We hope it inspires visitors to discover our ‘‘small pocket of paradise’’ and brings a sense of pride to the local community.
‘Following our success hosting other television programmes last year, we know that working with selective TV shows is an impactful way to reach new audiences and showcase the breadth of Jersey’s offering.’
The next episode will air on Wednesday 21 June at 8pm.
