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Hodder nets Rhys Jones

25.09.08 Katie Allen

Hodder & Stoughton has snapped up two major TV tie-in titles for 2009 and 2010, including one to accompany Griff Rhys Jones' new BBC1 series "The River".

Hodder publisher Rupert Lancaster acquired world rights in the Rhys Jones tie-in from the Cat Ledger Literary Agency. "The River" is a series of five 60-minute episodes being made by Rhys Jones' own production company, Modern Television, which describes the book and the series as "a journey into the heart of Britain". Rhys Jones will explore the history and scenery of the nation's rivers, and how they have shaped and affected the culture of Great Britain. Particular emphasis will be placed on encouraging people's interest in their own local rivers, with a companion website to be set up. "The River" is scheduled for broadcast in summer 2009.

Hodder has also signed a book deal with BBC2's "Springwatch" and "Autumnwatch" presenter Simon King.

King will take part in a BBC2 series to be broadcast in 2010, and write the tie-in title. The as-yet-untitled series, which will comprise eight 30-minute episodes, will follow King, his wife and young daughter as they take up residence on the Shetland Isles for a year. They will record the wildlife on the islands but also be involved as much as possible in the islands' culture and community.

Rupert Lancaster acquired UK and Commonwealth rights (including Canada) in the book from Marcella Edwards at PFD. The sums paid were undisclosed, but Lancaster added: "Everyone knows these kinds of deals don't come cheap".

Rights deal Hodder Katie Allen Simon King Griff Rhys Jones

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