Channel 4 commissions Twofour to produce new series, Marines (w/t)

The Twofour team behind hit-series Educating Yorkshire is producing a brand new eight-part observational documentary series for Channel 4 exploring the experiences of Royal Marines in training.

With unprecedented, behind-the-scenes access to the Commando Training Centre in Devon, the series will primarily focus on the progress of recruits through what is arguably the most arduous basic training programme in the world. The series has been greenlit by Channel 4 Head of Documentaries Nick Mirsky and will be managed by Commissioning Editor Amy Flanagan and is due to be broadcast later in 2014.

Using a unique combination of fixed-rig cameras and embedded directors the documentary will explore the inner workings of the Royal Marines’ training camp and the efforts of those hoping to earn the coveted green beret. Seen through both the eyes of the recruits and the teams that train them, the series will follow troops out on gruelling exercises, as well as taking us behind the closed doors of their living quarters for the first time.

Filmed over the coming winter, the series aims to explore the enduring ethos of Royal Marines Commandos through the eyes of a new generation of young men aspiring to join this elite force.

Amy Flanagan said: "This series hopes to capture the challenges and extraordinary rigours of training as well as the warmth, humour and camaraderie that flourish among recruits drawn from every corner of Britain and beyond."

Twofour's Group Creative Director, Andrew Mackenzie, said - "This is one of the strongest production teams in factual television following an incredible training regime, in a way we have never seen before. The intimacy of the rig and the talents of those in front and behind the camera will make this a compelling series."

The series is executive produced by David Clews and Dan Adamson for Twofour. The series director is Grace Reynolds and the series producer is Alex Kohler.