Robot Wars returns with 'raft of technological advances'

The ultimate battle of men and machines is to return after BBC Two announced a reboot of Robot Wars with "more robots, battles and science than ever before".

Following the format of the original series, which aired on the BBC from 1998 to 2002, teams of amateur roboteers will see their imaginatively-armed creations go head to head with the sole purpose of destroying their competitor.

The new six-part series promises a "raft of technological advances" including a new bullet-proof, purpose-built fighting arena and "state-of-the-art cameras" to capture every saw, claw and flame-thrower.

Fans will fondly remember house robots such as Sir Killalot, Shunt and Sergeant Bash, which took on competitors under the watchful eye of host Craig Charles and pit reporter Philippa Forrester, although the first series was helmed by Jeremy Clarkson.

It moved to Channel 5 for a final series in 2003, with Jayne Middlemass replacing Forrester.

Alan Tyler, BBC acting controller of entertainment commissioning, said: "The redeveloped Robot Wars proved compelling, offering a mix of real people, real passion and raw power. It is remarkable to see how much more powerful these robots have become since the series last aired, with battles now staged in an arena that is literally bullet-proof."

Mentorn Scotland will film the series at the new arena in Glasgow and it will air later this year.