Taskmaster and Drag Race UK studio set to close

The studios used by TV shows RuPaul's Drag Race UK and Taskmaster will close next year.

Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire is also known for hosting movie productions movie franchises such as James Bond, Marvel and Sonic the Hedgehog.

But the television production department, which specialises in light entertainment and comedy programming, is set to be closed following an internal review.

In a statement the group that owns the studio said: "We are very proud of the work the TV team has delivered over the years, having hosted many major titles for the UK’s broadcasters."

Productions already booked for 2024 and 2025 will not be affected by the closure, nor will TV productions taking place at other Pinewood sites.

The site offered three fully-equipped TV studios for the creation of sitcoms, panels shows and live broadcasts.

It also been used to film Red Dwarf, Would I Lie To You and Gordon Ramsey's Future Food Stars.

Pinewood said it was consulting with staff affected by the closure.

In 2019, Disney signed a deal to lease 20 of the stages at the site, months after Netflix agreed to a similar deal at Pinewood's Shepperton Studios.

Follow Beds, Herts and Bucks news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.