BBC turns Hardy classic into drama

Thomas Hardy's novel Tess Of The D'Urbervilles is likely to become the latest classic work to be turned into a costume drama. The BBC has commissioned writer Alan Sharp to adapt the classic tale of doomed love.

The Corporation is thought to be looking for a co-production partner - possibly from the United States - for the four- part, 240-minute project which could cost up to pounds 4.5m. It is thought to be the first British adaptation of the Dorset-born writer's story and Mr Sharp was commissioned after his work on the film Rob Roy. Hardy's 1891 novel was turned into a film in 1979 by Roman Polanski, who cast Nastassja Kinski (above) in the lead role.