With their focus on live-action children’s programs, Zodiak Kids’ former head of development David Hallam and ex-CBeebies series producer John Hancock have launched Three Arrows Media, a new UK indie prodco based in Manchester.

As the first kids indie to launch in Manchester since the creation of MediaCityUK, Three Arrows Media will create, develop and produce live-action shows for kids and families to be sold worldwide.

For its initial slate, the company has secured international development deals for two new factual series—one with Discovery Kids APAC and a mixed-media series for CBeebies. Additionally, Three Arrows co-owns the format for an all-new space-themed preschool series entitled Asra, which goes into production for Welsh pubcaster S4C next month.

During his 15-year stint with BBC Children’s, Hancock developed and produced a number of hit series including Mr. Bloom’s Nursery, Let’s Celebrate! and BAFTA-winner Swashbuckle.

Prior to his time with Zodiak Kids, Hallam also led development for Initial Kids/Endemol and Zenith Entertainment. He’s worked on popular shows such as Fort Boyard: Ultimate Challenge, Scrambled!, Zack & Quack, Floogals and Mister Maker’s Arty Party.