WANDER, a predominantly working class agency from Middlesbrough combines the beauty of the Lake District with the adrenaline-fuelled sport of Free Solo Climbing in a brand new BBC documentary “The Lakes: Our Life on the Edge.”
The BBC’s ‘Our Lives’ strand celebrates life within the UK in all its diversity, and is known for its unique perspectives and stories of remarkable people doing extraordinary things. WANDER joins the show in its eighth series, as they bring the picturesque landscape of the Lake District to a prime time spot on BBC One and iPlayer. The show has been home to an array of unique characters across the country, from lottery winners in Ireland to mountain rescue teams in Scotland. Now, Anna and Mat join their ranks, as viewers follow their awe-inspiring journey to undertake the biggest challenge of their lives and relationship.
The documentary uncovers both the physical and emotional challenges that come with climbing some of the country’s most dangerous peaks, without any ropes or protective equipment. Viewers are given a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the highs and lows of the sport, as newly engaged Anna and Mat face the biggest challenge of their climbing careers, and confront some of life’s biggest questions along the way.
Chloe Clover, CEO and Co Founder at WANDER, said: “Filming this documentary was a wild adventure for our crew, as well as Anna and Mat. We loved every second of it… even when we were carrying the camera kit up mountains in the rain! The Lake District is a special place to us, so to be able to tell this story in such a beautiful region was just incredible.
“Anna and Mat’s endurance, along with their love for each other and the life they live, is super inspiring and I can’t wait for people to see it!”
Wander’s Co-Founder and COO Lou Tonner added: “This documentary represents everything WANDER is about. We love the lakes and we love climbing, so to have the opportunity to film Anna and Mat taking on such a huge and scary challenge is literally a dream come true.
“When we were at the Edinburgh TV festival it was revealed that only 8% of the TV industry is working class, which blew our minds. Our team is from a working class background which we’re super proud of. It’s important to us that people can see themselves represented in our industry whether that’s TV (on or off screen) or agency.”
BBC England TV commissioner, Diana Hare, said: “Our Lives is a rare jewel. A series of single documentaries that all celebrate and reflect the amazing stories of people and communities across the UK.
“Over the years it has been a wonderful opportunity for smaller production companies and first-time directors and this year is no exception. I am excited by the developing talent we are working with.”
