BBC to mark 400th anniversary of the King James Bible

The 400th anniversary of the King James Bible will be marked in a brand new documentary on BBC Two in 2011.

The one-hour documentary - which will form part of the BBC’s wider anniversary celebrations on TV, radio and online - will be presented by Melvyn Bragg.

The King James Bible is a remarkable work of faith and historical piece of literature that has shaped our language, history and culture.

Bragg will look at the Bible’s extraordinary legacy and how ultimately, as it spread to the new world and the colonies, it helped to shape the world.

Aaqil Ahmed, the BBC's Commissioning Editor, Religion and Head of Religion and Ethics, says: "I am delighted to be working with Melvyn Bragg on what I am sure will be a unique and insightful documentary which will form the cornerstone of our programming to mark the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible across TV, radio and online. "

The documentary will be produced by the BBC’s Religion and Ethics Department in Manchester.