The BBC is poised to start filming on a new adapation of John Wyndham's The Day of The Triffids, due to hit screens in a high-definition two-parter some time next year.

Quite how ER screenwriter Patrick Harbinson will inject new life into the classic tale of horticultural apocalypse remains to be seen, since the Beeb has already done three TV and four radio versions. The corporation promises, though, a "fast-paced, futuristic and electrifying take" on the chilling guide to why you shouldn't look at meteor showers.

Julie Gardner, head of drama at BBC Wales, said: "We're hoping to attract a legion of new fans as well as give nightmares to a new generation of viewers."

The BBC says the show has yet to be cast, but is scheduled to go into production in London and the south-east "later this year". ®

Related stories

• Vanessa Redgrave braces for The Day of The Triffids (11 February 2009)
• Microtune boots up for in-car TV (10 December 2008)
• Clangers creator dies at 83 (9 December 2008)
• IAEA calls for mutated supercrops to feed world's hungry (2 December 2008)
• David Tennant quits Who (30 October 2008)
• Harvey Keitel to experience Life on Mars (6 October 2008)
• Artemis Fowl scribe to pen sixth Hitchhiker's novel (17 September 2008)
• Mel Gibson to star in Edge of Darkness (29 April 2008)