History has commissioned a series of short films featuring blacksmiths and bladesmiths across the UK called Forged in Britain.
Produced by Barcroft Media, five short films have been commissioned to sit alongside the new series of History's popular US series, Forged in Fire.
The short documentaries will be broadcast on both the History channel and on Barcroft TV.
Each of the shorts will introduce audiences to a different craftsperson, who demonstrates how they create a new blade and shares their knowledge about the history of the item they have made.
The five forgers featured in the short films are Alec Steele, who has nearly 250,000 YouTube subscribers; Rod Hughes, who has built his own Viking forge; Josh Burrel and his blacksmith dad, making up the father and son team; Owen Bush, respected blacksmith teacher, and Grace Horne who specialises in producing intricate knives and scissors and works out of a renovated public toilet.
Dan Korn, Vice President of Programming at A+E Networks UK which owns History, said: “Forged in Fire is one of History UK's most successful shows ever and we are delighted to have the brand new series premiering on our channel. With Britain’s long-established tradition of blacksmithing, History is proud to showcase the work and skill of UK forgers whose craftsmanship is every bit as impressive as their American counterparts.”
Sam Barcroft, CEO of Barcroft Media, added: “We are delighted that A+E Networks UK is taking such an innovative approach to marketing one of their biggest US shows in the UK. By combining our editorial ability with the reach of our digital distribution network and news wire services, we’ll help share these fascinating stories in a groundbreaking way.”
