Russia set to make its own Top Gear

4:05am Tuesday 14th October 2008

Russia is to make its own version of hit British motoring show Top Gear.

TV bosses there are searching for a Russian Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May.

MIR Reality Production, a Russian production company, is to make 15 episodes for the broadcaster REN TV. The commission follows the success of the British version of Top Gear in Russia.

The UK series has been broadcast in more than 100 countries, including Australia, the United States and France. Australia recently launched its own version of the BBC2 motoring programme.

REN TV communications director Anton Nazaro said: "The British version of Top Gear has already proved its popularity in Russia and we think a local version will make a big impact.

"Russia can be a difficult market to access. We... hope our version of the show will become as popular as the original."

BBC Worldwide said: "Russian audiences can look forward to strong opinions, daring stunts and comical escapades by the three motor heads."

Top Gear's presenters launched a £20 million world tour of their live show earlier this year.

Clarkson is thought to have re-signed to Top Gear in recent months and is believed to be one of the Corporation's highest-paid stars. Hammond and May also agreed new Top Gear deals.

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