Much-loved puppet Basil Brush is returning to TV screens on the 21st Century version of the Saturday morning classic, Swap Shop. CBBC presenter Barney Harwood will present Basil's Swap Shop alongside the famous fox for a 13-week run on BBC Two. The BBC has commissioned the programme from The Foundation, working with Entertainment Rights Plc, owner of the rights to Basil Brush, who made his television debut in 1963. Mike Heap, CEO of Entertainment Rights, said: "Basil Brush is a national treasure and we are delighted that the BBC has commissioned Basil's Swap Shop." The programme will update the 'Swap Shop' concept for the 21st Century, with producers promising a mix of interactive and comedy-based sketches, music and games. Each week, celebrity guests will also appear the show to trade their goods. Mr Heap added: "This show takes Basil into a dynamic new multiplatform environment and he will bring Swap Shop to a whole new generation of children. The digital element will enhance the viewing experience and children will be able to participate in the show first hand through the multi-platform interactive format the series will adopt." Multi-Coloured Swap Shop, presented by Noel Edmonds, Keith Chegwin, John Craven and Maggie Philbin, was BBC One's flagship Saturday morning show between 1976 and 1982.
