Amazon trip for stv autumn schedule

AN eight-part documentary series, following the efforts of a Scottish charity setting up a health service for people in the Amazon, promises to be one of the highlights of the forthcoming season on stv.

At the launch of its autumn schedule yesterday, stv also announced a new reality programme, where ‘city slickers’ are required to ‘brave’ life in the countryside.

Both Amazon Heartbeat and Conquer the Castle are part of the channel’s regional opt-out menu, from what’s being broadcast across the ITV network.

That the schedule is a mix of opt-outs and network programmes had stv showing off two stars from the soap, Emmerdale, at yesterday’s launch: Georgia Slowe, who plays Perdy Hyde-Sinclair, and Chris Villiers, who plays Grayson Sinclair.

Another opt-out series is Safe as Houses, for people interested in buying or selling property in Scotland.

Amazon Heartbeat, made by Glasgow Films, begins transmission on the sixth of next month. Says stv: “It follows a group of adventurers, pioneers and medical volunteers working on two medical boats in one of the most remote and hostile parts of the planet, Amazonia.

“In one of the most fascinating expeditions of modern times, the group – led by charismatic preacher, Willie McPherson – sets out to create a floating health service for over 100,000 people in Peru. Their work is part of charity, The Vine Trust’s Amazon Hope Medical Project.”

Says Rob Woodward, chief executive of stv owners, SMG: “We’ve got a great line up of programming for the autumn schedule which we’re confident our viewers will enjoy. stv continues to be the most popular peak time TV station in Scotland and we are committed to building on that foundation by providing top quality content serving our audiences and advertisers throughout the year.”