FilmG live stream

ONLINE LIVE STREAM ENSURES FILMG AWARDS 2017 ARE NOT TO BE MISSED WITH DANNY MACASKILL EXCLUSIVE

FilmG presenters

The highly anticipated awards ceremony for Scotland’s national Gaelic film competition, FilmG, takes place at the Old Fruitmarket in Glasgow on Friday 17 February. Following on from the success of last year, which saw the awards streamed online for the very first time, FilmG fans and followers will once again be able to watch the prize-giving event live online.

This year, FilmG will also have the welcome addition of backstage videos where winners share their thoughts and excitement with FilmG fans online. Among those chatting with our team backstage will be long time FilmG supporter Danny MacAskill, who’s recent ‘Wee Day Out’ video became an internet sensation.

The ninth year of these awards also sees the return of FilmG’s popular Gaelic Instagram competition with the live stream ensuring that attendees and viewers watching at home, will be able to enter on the night.

The live stream adds a fantastic interactive element to the event, as FilmG presenters Fiona MacKenzie and Niall Iain MacDonald invite those present, as well as live stream viewers, to post the most fun, entertaining and/or creative Gaelic photo to the popular social media site Instagram, under the hashtag #FilmG. Judges will review the entries and choose a winner – which will be announced at the end of the night – and the lucky winner will receive a Bebop Parrot Drone camera.

Moira Pugh, Project Manager of FilmG, said: “With just days to go until the awards, there is a great buzz building, particularly on social media. Last year’s first live stream opened up the already popular awards to a much wider audience, ensuring that FilmG fans worldwide were able to feel part of the night and FilmG is thrilled to be able to share the event again this year.

“The live stream is also a fantastic addition for those who have been involved with the competition and are unable to attend the event – as well as those who have given their support to the competition throughout the last year.

“We are delighted to welcome back our Instagram photo competition. It proved incredibly popular last year and in conjunction with our signature hashtags, it’s a great, fun way of getting more people to post to social media in Gaelic. Once again, we look to replicate this creative and light-hearted use of social media to promote the Gaelic language and the competition.”

Amongst the live entertainment on the evening will be a set from brilliant young four-piece band, INYAL, fresh from performances at Celtic Connections and The Highland Annual. FilmG is also excited by the news that the boys will be joined on stage by the wonderful Gaelic singer, Josie Duncan.

Moira added: “FilmG looks to nurture creative talent through filmmaking and it’s extremely exciting that at this year’s awards there is a crossover, with 2016 Best Documentary winner, Hamish MacLeod and his eclectic young trad band, INYAL rounding off the night’s entertainment, making it an extra special performance for FilmG.”

BBC Charter Review

MÒD VLOG CHAMPIONS ARE CROWNED

vlogger Calum Maclean presenting Beth Campbell, winner in the young person’s single vlog category of MG ALBA’s Mòd vlogging competition, with her GoPro camera

The winners of MG ALBA’s Mòd vlogging competition have been announced.

Thirty nine entries – 17 from young people and 22 from adults – were submitted to the Vlog a’ Mhòid/Mod Vlog competition, which asked for short video blogs about the Mòd from anyone participating in any way whether it be as a performer, TV viewer, radio listener, competition adjudicator or Mòd supporter. Each category winner receives the prize of a GoPro camera.

Winner in the young person’s single vlog category was Beth, 11, from Kilmaluag on the Isle of Skye with her vlog entitled Clann Thròndairnis aig Mòd nan Eilean Siar 2016. Beth was part of a group called Clann Thròndairnis, who competed in several competitions at the Mòd, and her vlog tells the story of their journey to Stornoway, the group competing and the prizes they won. The judges particularly praised her ability to communicate her story in such a fun and vibrant way, using video effects and pictures to enhance her vlog.

In second place was Matthew age nine from Edinburgh, whilst brothers Ewan and Andrew 13 and 10 respectively, from Laide couldn’t be separated and scooped joint third place.

In the young person’s vlog series category, friends Katie and Breagha, both 10 years old, from Bun-sgoil Ghàidhlig Inbhir Nis, were crowned winners with an impressive series that told their entire Mòd story, including some excursions around Lewis and Harris, and ending with their ferry journey home. The last vlog in their series can be viewed here.

Second and third place respectively went to brothers Rufus and Felix (eight and five) from Oban, who both based their series on the journey to Stornoway, concluding with their competitions. In particular, judges praised Rufus for his creativity in his Bàrdachd Rufus vlog where he recites his Mòd poem in different places as he makes his way to Stornoway. In the adult categories, Ricky Hannaway and Alison MacRae, friends from the Isle of Lewis, made a humorous series of vlogs about the Mòd and the judges liked their entries Abair Sealladh! so much that not only did they win best adult series, but also best adult single vlog with Alison’s Sabotage Seòlta / Cunning Sabotage.

The friends are members of rival choirs and their series delves into the rivalry between them when the Mòd comes around. The judges were unanimous when choosing the winning single vlog in which Alison gets her own back on Ricky for spying on her choir. The vlog in which Alison impersonates the conductor of the other choir to sabotage their rehearsal was funny, well scripted and well planned.

Joy Dunlop, a self-confessed Mòd geek, gave an overview of her Mòd as judge and competitor. Her second vlog in which she shows her journey to Stornoway was praised by the judges and got second place in the single vlog category and her series was awarded second place overall.

Marcas Mac an Tuairneir’s series of seven vlogs was awarded third place and a vlog by Na Cardigans – friends Hannah, Caitlin and Eilish was awarded third in the adult singe vlog category.

Calum Maclean, vlogger on BBC The Social, judged the competition, along with highly regarded singer and teacher, Sineag MacIntyre and Alison Bruce, An Comunn Gaidhealach development officer.

Calum said: “The vlogs that were received in the Vlog a Mhòid competition were really creative, imaginative and personal. Some made us laugh, some made us think, and some inspired us. We were amazed at how different they all were – giving a great overview of Mòd life.

“Those making their very first vlogs should be especially commended. Ultimately we, as judges, found it very difficult to decide between them – all the vloggers should be proud of their efforts.”

Iseabail MacTaggart, MG ALBA’s Director of Strategy and Partnership, said: “We were delighted with the quality of the vlogs across the competition, both in creative ideas and execution of filming and editing. It was clear that Mòd goers’ imaginations were fired up. We look forward to seeing more in the future!”

Vlog a’ Mhòid / Mòd Vlog

The winners of MG ALBA’s Mòd vlogging competition have been announced.

Thirty nine entries – 17 from young people and 22 from adults – were submitted to the Vlog a’ Mhòid/Mod Vlog competition, which asked for short video blogs about the Mòd from anyone participating in any way whether it be as a performer, TV viewer, radio listener, competition adjudicator or Mòd supporter. Each category winner receives the prize of a GoPro camera.

Winner in the young person’s single vlog category was Beth, 11, from Kilmaluag on the Isle of Skye with her vlog entitled Clann Thròndairnis aig Mòd nan Eilean Siar 2016. Beth was part of a group called Clann Thròndairnis, who competed in several competitions at the Mòd, and her vlog tells the story of their journey to Stornoway, the group competing and the prizes they won. The judges particularly praised her ability to communicate her story in such a fun and vibrant way, using video effects and pictures to enhance her vlog.

In second place was Matthew age nine from Edinburgh, whilst brothers Ewan and Andrew 13 and 10 respectively, from Laide couldn’t be separated and scooped joint third place.

In the young person’s vlog series category, friends Katie and Breagha, both 10 years old, from Bun-sgoil Ghàidhlig Inbhir Nis, were crowned winners with an impressive series that told their entire Mòd story, including some excursions around Lewis and Harris, and ending with their ferry journey home. The last vlog in their series can be viewed here.

Second and third place respectively went to brothers Rufus and Felix (eight and five) from Oban, who both based their series on the journey to Stornoway, concluding with their competitions. In particular, judges praised Rufus for his creativity in his Bàrdachd Rufus vlog where he recites his Mòd poem in different places as he makes his way to Stornoway. In the adult categories, Ricky Hannaway and Alison MacRae, friends from the Isle of Lewis, made a humorous series of vlogs about the Mòd and the judges liked their entries Abair Sealladh! so much that not only did they win best adult series, but also best adult single vlog with Alison’s Sabotage Seòlta / Cunning Sabotage.

The friends are members of rival choirs and their series delves into the rivalry between them when the Mòd comes around. The judges were unanimous when choosing the winning single vlog in which Alison gets her own back on Ricky for spying on her choir. The vlog in which Alison impersonates the conductor of the other choir to sabotage their rehearsal was funny, well scripted and well planned.

Joy Dunlop, a self-confessed Mòd geek, gave an overview of her Mòd as judge and competitor. Her second vlog in which she shows her journey to Stornoway was praised by the judges and got second place in the single vlog category and her series was awarded second place overall.

Marcas Mac an Tuairneir’s series of seven vlogs was awarded third place and a vlog by Na Cardigans – friends Hannah, Caitlin and Eilish was awarded third in the adult singe vlog category.

Calum Maclean, vlogger on BBC The Social, judged the competition, along with highly regarded singer and teacher, Sineag MacIntyre and Alison Bruce, An Comunn Gaidhealach development officer.

Calum said: “The vlogs that were received in the Vlog a Mhòid competition were really creative, imaginative and personal. Some made us laugh, some made us think, and some inspired us. We were amazed at how different they all were – giving a great overview of Mòd life.

“Those making their very first vlogs should be especially commended. Ultimately we, as judges, found it very difficult to decide between them – all the vloggers should be proud of their efforts.”

Iseabail MacTaggart, MG ALBA’s Director of Strategy and Partnership, said: “We were delighted with the quality of the vlogs across the competition, both in creative ideas and execution of filming and editing. It was clear that Mòd goers’ imaginations were fired up. We look forward to seeing more in the future!”

Mòd Vlog winners

MÒD VLOG CHAMPIONS ARE CROWNED

vlogger Calum Maclean presenting Beth Campbell, winner in the young person’s single vlog category of MG ALBA’s Mòd vlogging competition, with her GoPro camera

The winners of MG ALBA’s Mòd vlogging competition have been announced.

Thirty nine entries – 17 from young people and 22 from adults – were submitted to the Vlog a’ Mhòid/Mod Vlog competition, which asked for short video blogs about the Mòd from anyone participating in any way whether it be as a performer, TV viewer, radio listener, competition adjudicator or Mòd supporter. Each category winner receives the prize of a GoPro camera.

Winner in the young person’s single vlog category was Beth, 11, from Kilmaluag on the Isle of Skye with her vlog entitled Clann Thròndairnis aig Mòd nan Eilean Siar 2016. Beth was part of a group called Clann Thròndairnis, who competed in several competitions at the Mòd, and her vlog tells the story of their journey to Stornoway, the group competing and the prizes they won. The judges particularly praised her ability to communicate her story in such a fun and vibrant way, using video effects and pictures to enhance her vlog.

In second place was Matthew age nine from Edinburgh, whilst brothers Ewan and Andrew 13 and 10 respectively, from Laide couldn’t be separated and scooped joint third place.

In the young person’s vlog series category, friends Katie and Breagha, both 10 years old, from Bun-sgoil Ghàidhlig Inbhir Nis, were crowned winners with an impressive series that told their entire Mòd story, including some excursions around Lewis and Harris, and ending with their ferry journey home. The last vlog in their series can be viewed here.

Second and third place respectively went to brothers Rufus and Felix (eight and five) from Oban, who both based their series on the journey to Stornoway, concluding with their competitions. In particular, judges praised Rufus for his creativity in his Bàrdachd Rufus vlog where he recites his Mòd poem in different places as he makes his way to Stornoway. In the adult categories, Ricky Hannaway and Alison MacRae, friends from the Isle of Lewis, made a humorous series of vlogs about the Mòd and the judges liked their entries Abair Sealladh! so much that not only did they win best adult series, but also best adult single vlog with Alison’s Sabotage Seòlta / Cunning Sabotage.

The friends are members of rival choirs and their series delves into the rivalry between them when the Mòd comes around. The judges were unanimous when choosing the winning single vlog in which Alison gets her own back on Ricky for spying on her choir. The vlog in which Alison impersonates the conductor of the other choir to sabotage their rehearsal was funny, well scripted and well planned.

Joy Dunlop, a self-confessed Mòd geek, gave an overview of her Mòd as judge and competitor. Her second vlog in which she shows her journey to Stornoway was praised by the judges and got second place in the single vlog category and her series was awarded second place overall.

Marcas Mac an Tuairneir’s series of seven vlogs was awarded third place and a vlog by Na Cardigans – friends Hannah, Caitlin and Eilish was awarded third in the adult singe vlog category.

Calum Maclean, vlogger on BBC The Social, judged the competition, along with highly regarded singer and teacher, Sineag MacIntyre and Alison Bruce, An Comunn Gaidhealach development officer.

Calum said: “The vlogs that were received in the Vlog a Mhòid competition were really creative, imaginative and personal. Some made us laugh, some made us think, and some inspired us. We were amazed at how different they all were – giving a great overview of Mòd life.

“Those making their very first vlogs should be especially commended. Ultimately we, as judges, found it very difficult to decide between them – all the vloggers should be proud of their efforts.”

Iseabail MacTaggart, MG ALBA’s Director of Strategy and Partnership, said: “We were delighted with the quality of the vlogs across the competition, both in creative ideas and execution of filming and editing. It was clear that Mòd goers’ imaginations were fired up. We look forward to seeing more in the future!”

FilmG 2017

TWO WEEKS TO GO! LAST CHANCE TO ENTER THIS YEAR’S FILMG COMPETITION

After a very exciting and busy six months, the closing date for entries in FilmG 2017 is fast approaching. However, if anyone is yet to complete their film there are still two weeks left, before the competition closes on Wednesday 14th December.

Whether it be a comedy, drama, documentary or even a music video, one of the simplest ways to make a short film, is to use mobile technology. Making a film is easier than you might think… As long as you have a mobile phone or tablet and a germ of an idea, you can download one of the many editing apps, such as iMovie or FilmoraGo and you too can be in with the chance of winning a fantastic £500 voucher, for Best Mobile Short in the open category.

This year saw the addition of two new categories; Best Sports Commentary and in the Youth section, a prize for Best Animation. As with the mobile shorts, everyday technology can be used to create simple and effective stop motion films using props you have to hand.

So, if you prefer the latest Pixar release to the newest Blockbuster, then why not try your hand at an animation – even if your school has already entered a film, there is still time to showcase your own creativity too! Animated entries must contain a Gaelic element.

The FilmG team are hopeful that the increasing availability of technology along with a broader range of prizes than ever before will see a record number of entries this year.

Remember, the theme for this year’s FilmG competition is ‘Strì’ meaning to strive or endeavour. This year’s topic has already inspired films of all genres – why not add yours to the list? Again, entries must be submitted by Wednesday 14th December. All films must be in Scottish Gaelic and can be up to five minutes long for youth category entrants or up to eight minutes in length for open category entrants. So go on, what are you waiting for?!

For some last minute inspiration, remember to check out films from previous years, these are available to watch online at www.filmg.co.uk. If you would still like to make a film and/or want to know more about the competition, please contact eilidh.rankin@canan.co.uk or moira@canan.co.uk

Celtic Formats Pilot Scheme 2016/17

CELTIC FORMAT PILOT SCHEME 2016/17

For the second year, BBC ALBA, S4C and TG4 are pleased to be working together on a Celtic Formats Scheme. Ideas are invited for an original, unscripted factual entertainment format that taps into the zeitgeist and will appeal across the Celtic nations and beyond.

Funding from MG ALBA, S4C and TG4 totalling £15,000 is on offer with the aim of developing a pilot that can be produced in the Celtic nations independently and further afield.

Iseabail Mactaggart, Director of Strategy and Partnership for MG ALBA said: “We are ambitious for Gaelic broadcasting and for our suppliers and this scheme allows us the space to create a new format and to collaborate with other broadcasters and markets”.

Further information on the scheme can be found here.

Big Gaelic Survey

THE BIG GAELIC SURVEY ASKS HOW MEDIA CAN HELP THE GAELIC LANGUAGE TO PROSPER

A new survey has been launched as part of research examining the impact of Gaelic media on learning of the language.

The Big Gaelic Survey, which has been commissioned by Bòrd na Gàidhlig and MG ALBA, is being conducted independently from the two organisations by Meriel Young Consulting, a research consultancy based in Edinburgh.

Three questionnaires have been launched aimed at those with varying levels of Gaelic proficiency: Gaelic speakers, Gaelic learners and those who are interested in learning Gaelic in the future.

Respondents can access the survey by visiting the dedicated website at www.thebiggaelicsurvey.co.uk. Responses should take no more than five minutes to complete.

Among the topics raised in the questionnaire are the impact of platforms such as BBC ALBA and BBC Radio nan Gàidheal, the availability and quality of Gaelic learning materials and the gaps that may exist in resources to encourage more people to not only learn Gaelic but improve their aptitude in the language.

Meriel Young, from Meriel Young Consulting, said: “The research which has been commissioned by Bòrd na Gàidhlig and MG ALBA will help to inform the future of Gaelic media in forthcoming years. We want to reach a wide range of respondents, from fluent Gaelic speakers to those who would like to learn the language but have yet to do so. By reaching as many people as possible, male and female, young and old, we can enhance the value of our findings.”

Bòrd na Gàidhlig Ceannard (CEO), Shona MacLennan said: “Bòrd na Gàidhlig wants to understand better how people learn and enhance their Gaelic skills. It is paramount for planning and developing the language that we understand how the media helps Gaelic speakers, learners, and those interested in learning access the language. This is the first time research such as this has been undertaken and it will enable us to measure just how important the media is in growing Gaelic.”

Iseabail Mactaggart, Director of Strategy and Partnership at MG ALBA, said: “Our Lèirsinn 2021 strategy was launched last December with a five-year objective of transforming the contribution of Gaelic media to the revitalisation of the language. This new independently conducted research will enable us to understand the role media play in Gaelic language learning, from cradle to grave, and we are looking to hear opinions on what users feel they need to further develop their language skills. Digital media is evolving quickly and we must ensure that we support Gaelic language learning, capitalising on new opportunities as they become available.”

Gaelic writers’ survey

MG ALBA CALL FOR GAELIC WRITERS’ VIEWS AS CHILDREN’S DRAMA FILM IS SHOWCASED AT THE MÒD

Current and aspiring Gaelic writers are being asked for their views on developing their TV writing talent by MG ALBA, the Gaelic Media Service.

A survey, which is available through the MG ALBA’s website and is being supported by HIE Emergents, is asking for opinions from writers on the sort of work they currently undertake, and what resources would encourage them to write more or embark on different forms of their work. The questionnaire has already had nearly 50 responses and MG ALBA are appealing for other writers to make their views known.

The call for further responses was made as a new European Broadcasting Union Children’s Drama Scheme short film, commissioned by MG ALBA, has been showcased at the Mòd in Stornoway.

Na Saboteurs was filmed on location in Ness, Isle of Lewis, and has an original Gaelic script written by acclaimed writer Catriona Lexy Campbell, who is also making her directorial debut. It is produced by BBC ALBA presenter, Fiona MacKenzie and Kirsty Hines-Mackay.

The new production also features two exceptional young talents in the lead roles: Zoe Mustian and Daniel Macleod. Completing the cast are Artair Donald and Donna Morrison, two of Gaelic’s most well-established performers. Original music was also commissioned for the drama by Ross B. Wilson of Tidelines – his first TV commission. The short film will be shown on BBC ALBA as part of the channel’s Christmas schedule.

Na Saboteurs, and the survey, forms part of MG ALBA’s pursuit to develop Gaelic writing talent.

Writers of all ages and experiences are encouraged to complete the short questionnaire which will then inform MG ALBA’s strategy in this area over future months and years.

Iseabail Mactaggart, Director of Strategy and Partnership at MG ALBA, said: “Developing talent across our creative sector is an intrinsic part of MG ALBA’s work and we are committed to ensuring that writing talent is nurtured as part of this strategy.

“For that reason, we want to learn about the experiences of those who already write in Gaelic – whether for personal enjoyment or professionally. Similarly, we want to hear from those who may want to start writing or write more but feel they are unprepared to do so, maybe through a lack of training or confidence.

“Knowledge of the Gaelic language, and writing skills in particular, can also affect a person’s ability to put pen to paper. We want to know if and where barriers exist and what MG ALBA can do to help overcome these, so we create the foundation for the very best of Gaelic writing to be seen on screen.”

Catriona Lexy Campbell, writer of Na Saboteurs, said: “Na Saboteurs provides an opportunity for young Gaelic talent to get involved in production and we are thrilled with Zoe and Daniel’s performances and how well the film has turned out.

“I was pleased to have the chance to write the script for Na Saboteurs and we need to equip more people with the skill and confidence to develop their Gaelic writing. I have already completed MG ALBA’s survey and would encourage everyone to do so no matter what their level of writing experience is. Only by knowing what needs to be achieved can resources and expertise be directed in the most effective way possible.”

The survey can be accessed via https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/MGALBA_sgriobhadh

Strategic team reinforcing commitment to Gaelic Broadcasting

MG ALBA ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC TEAM REINFORCING ITS COMMITMENT TO GAELIC BROADCASTING

MG ALBA, the Gaelic Media Service has strengthened its team with the announcement today (Wednesday, 5 October) that it has made a key strategic move as well as creating a post for a new commissioning editor.

Director of Development and Partnerships, Iseabail Mactaggart, will take responsibility for the strategic development of BBC ALBA programming and MG ALBA’s Gaelic digital media engagement. This will see Iseabail assume management of MG ALBA’s channel team and oversight of content budgets. Working in close partnership with BBC ALBA’s Head of Service, Iseabail’s principal role will be to increase, amongst other things, the scale and the value of content collaborations with the BBC and with other broadcasters, producers, funders and agencies.

MG ALBA is also pleased to announce the creation of a new post for a commissioning editor, which will go to recruitment shortly.

The new arrangements take place with immediate effect and follow the departure of Alan Esslemont, former head of content for BBC ALBA for the past eight years, who leaves on 7 October to take up the post of Director-General of TG4 later in the month.

Iseabail Mactaggart said: “It is a privilege to take on this role. BBC ALBA is a demonstrable success, and that has been due to the leadership behind the channel. I look forward to working with colleagues within MG ALBA and the BBC, with suppliers and all our stakeholders to build on that remarkable foundation and realise our ambitions for BBC ALBA.”

Donald Campbell, chief executive, added: “Our new arrangements offer us an opportunity to build on the success of BBC ALBA and on the significant progress Iseabail has achieved in the two years since she joined us, working with great success with our creative sector and agencies to help build the capability to realise our shared ambitions for Gaelic media and for the creative sector in Scotland.

“In December 2015, Iseabail led on the publication of our Vision strategy for the next five years – Lèirsinn 2021. The extension of Iseabail’s role and the creation of a new commissioning post reinforces our commitment to realising that vision.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Alan Esslemont for his leadership, his strategic vision and his immense contribution to making BBC ALBA the success it is. We wish him every success in his new post and look forward to collaborating closely with him and with TG4.”

Alan Esslemont said: “The past eight and a half years working with MG ALBA as BBC ALBA Head of Content have been the most enjoyable of my working life.  I was privileged to work with such highly committed and professional colleagues and to have been a part of the success story that is BBC ALBA from its inception. I look forward to maintaining a close relationship with BBC ALBA in my new post.”

Bannan – international audiences

A flagship Gaelic drama filmed on the Isle of Skye is to be exported to international audiences through a new distribution deal.

Bannan is screened on BBC ALBA and the new set of episodes start tonight on the channel.

The series is also now poised for broadcast internationally, having been signed up by DRG, one of the leading independent distributors of programmes in the world.

The news about Bannan’s international distribution comes as BBC ALBA channel partner, MG ALBA, set out the economic impact of Gaelic broadcasting at the Scottish Parliament.

Donald Campbell, Chief Executive of MG ALBA said: “The story of Bannan is part of the growth of BBC ALBA and the new distribution agreement is another landmark step in the development of the channel.

“It was important that BBC ALBA could embrace the drama genre in order to serve our Gaelic audience yet, the drama – and the channel – also needed to ensure that we could make an important contribution to the creative sector in Scotland.”

Figures to be published shortly by consultants Olsberg SPI demonstrate the economic impact of MG ALBA’s investments, particularly in the Western Isles and Skye. The international consultants found that the “114.4 FTE jobs created directly or supported by MG ALBA are equivalent to just under 11,000 in the Central Belt”. There were similar effects in additional economic value, as measured by GVA, and in equivalent value in wages generated.

Donald Campbell continued: “These figures demonstrate the enormous economic impact of investment in Gaelic broadcasting, and the stimulus such investment can generate for growth in Scotland’s creative industries.”

Young Films’ new agreement will also cover further programmes and material produced by Young Films, the independent production company formed and headed by producer of The Inbetweeners, Chris Young.

Chris Young, producer of Bannan, said: “When we first embarked on producing Bannan, we were clear that the drama should be appealing not only to a Gaelic and Scottish audience but to have strong storylines that would resonate across borders.

“We knew that the production talent existed within Scotland to make such a drama, and the wonderful location of Skye is unrivalled – all that was needed was the platform and resources to make it a reality.”

BBC ALBA is operated as a partnership agreement between the BBC and MG ALBA.

MG ALBA is pressing the BBC to make an increased commitment to the channel in order to increase the amount of original programming and reduce the number of repeats.

Donald Campbell added: “We are ambitious for Gaelic and for BBC ALBA – our ambition for the channel includes increased BBC commitment as part of a consistent, supportive policy by the BBC towards its minority language services. Following the provisions in the Charter and Framework Agreement published last week, we will be working with the BBC in the months ahead and making every attempt to secure increased BBC commitment for the channel.”