What were the greatest machines in each decade of British history? Chris Barrie tracks down the mechanical icons which changed peoples` lives and helped to shape modern Britain. From the greatest steam locomotives, the early airliners and the first mass-produced cars, to design icons like the Austin Mini and the E-Type Jaguar. As ever, Chris is rolling up his sleeves and getting hands on - if it moves, he`ll have a go!

There`s a lot more to all these machines than first meets the eye and Chris digs out forgotten stories and classic moments of invention as he zeroes in on the engineering genius which made each machine so pivotal. Decade by decade, Chris puts these engineering greats to the test, tells the stories of the brains behind them and examines their place in history.  And, of course, this wouldn`t be British engineering without a few glorious failures along the way. . .

A series packed full of ripping yarns, petrol-soaked adventures and plenty of va va voom, all delivered with passion and a fantastic sense of humour by the superlative Mr B.

This first series includes the greatest British machines from the `30s, `50s, `60s and `80s. Chris` all-star line-up of mechanical icons includes:

Morris 8, Schneider Supermarine S6-B and Spitfire, A4 Gresley, Vulcan Bomber, Landrover Mk1, Mini Cooper S, Mini Minor Mk1, Jaguar E-Type, Corvette Stingray, DeLorean DMC-12, Lotus F1, Esprit Turbo, Scimitar Tank. . . and the Sinclair C-5.

This four-part series will be premiering every Thursday in June at 9pm, with regular repeats.

For more information and competitions, please go to www.natgeochannel.co.uk

To request photos and video clips to add to your website, please contact: info@thegammaproject.com

/e&oe/ends/