STV commissions second series of The Football Years

A TV series charting the history of Scottish football, by looking at the events during key years, is to be re-commissioned.

And says its makers and broadcasters, STV, football fans are being invited to suggest which eras should receive The Football Years’ treatment during its second series.

Considered by many to be among STV’s best work in recent times, The Football Years has been a ratings success.

Narrated by Peter Capaldi, last week’s episode, which focused on 1971 and 1972, attracted some 21 per cent of the TV viewing audience at the time, ie some 430,000 people – beating every other channel and outperforming the ITV network.

Says producer, Brendan O’Hara: “The series is a mix of great storytelling, nostalgia and social history. That, coupled with the nation’s love of football, makes for compelling programming, and I’m thrilled we’re going into production with a second series.”

Added Elizabeth Partyka, channel controller for STV: “The Football Years has been a great success for STV. It is performing well in its slot, up against some tough competition, and is delivering new audiences for STV which is crucial in this multi-channel digital age. We’re delighted to be offering viewers another series, and to give them the opportunity to help shape the content.”

In its first series, The Football Years explored events taking place in 1967, 2003, 1979, 1998, 1971/2 and 1982.