Paul Merton will get inside the driver’s cab of some of the world’s most famous trains in a six-part series for Channel 4.  

Produced by Argonon-owned BriteSpark East, Paul Merton: Driving Amazing Trains follows the comedian and locomotive fan as he takes control of trains across Germany, France, Switzerland, Wales, northern England and the Isle of Wight. Merton will meet the people who keep the railways running such as engineers and conductors, and the passsengers they carry. ?  

The series also explores the engineering feats behind the routes : tunnels carved through mountains, bridges spanning ravines and spiralling tracks that appear to defy gravity.  

Merton’s interest in the topic stems from his father who used to drive trains on the London Underground. His journeys across the UK and Europe cause him to reflect on his father’s life on the rails and reconnect with the roots of his passion. 

Paul Merton: Driving Amazing Trains was commissioned by Deborah Dunnett, commissioning editor, lifestyle, and Jo Street, head of lifestyle and director of commissioning for  nations and regions. 

It is executive produced by Tom Porter and series produced by Ed Booth, with Ben Duncan as series director. It was developed by Quentin Clarke.  

The series is distributed internationally by Sphere Abacus and has already been pre-sold to SBS in Australia.  

Porter said: “This series is a celebration of engineering, nostalgia, and the joy of discovery, and Paul brings it all to life with his trademark wit and warmth. We’re proud to be producing a show that not only explores the beauty of Britain and Europe by rail but also connects with audiences through Paul’s personal story.”  

Dunnett said: “It’s a real privilege to join Paul on his heartfelt journey, while also experiencing dazzling landscapes and the ever-joyful railway community along the way.” 

BriteSpark East is the indie’s office in Chelmsford, Essex.