THE FASCINATING story of the Eglinton Tournament is the focus of a new STV history programme.

The People’s History Show looks at the infamous 1839 tournament organised by Archibald, Earl of Eglinton.

The event, which sought to recreate a medieval joust with aristocratic guests coming from all over the world, nearly bankrupted the Earl’s family, with his grand daughter stating that ‘he had spent most of the wealth of the estate’.

The programme looks at how the idea for the tournament came about, the shock as 100,000 people descended on the Eglinton Estate, the rehearsal having only counted on a few thousand.

The lavish event had already become a political punchbag, with parliamentarian Whigs lambasting the tournament’s costs at a time of economic struggle.

Then came the weather, with storms decimating the tournament programme.

While the actual tournament was severely criticised, many took inspiration from its ambition and it is considered a precursor to modern day re-enactments.

The Earl was also presented with the imposing Eglinton Trophy, a 4’8” silver sculpture which is now hous ed at North Ayrshire Council’s Cunninghame House HQ.

The show can be viewed on the STV player. Fronted by STV viewers’ favourite Angus Simpson and returning host Sarah Mack, and with David Farrell bringing features from across the country, The People’s History Show looks back in time to discover the places and people that make up Scotland’s shared history.

The new episodes explore a host of fascinating events, places and personalities from Scotland’s past, including a look at McCaig’s Tower in Oban, one of the country’s most unusual buildings; the story of world-famous transatlantic liner Queen Elizabeth 2, which was built and launched in Clydebank in 1967; and a chance to learn more about Aberdeen writer and poet Nan Shepherd, whose picture can be seen on Scottish £5 notes.

The series pays tribute to iconic Edinburgh author Muriel Spark to mark the 100th anniversary of her birth and looks back at Muhammad Ali’s visit to Paisley in 1965, when the heavyweight champion was still known as Cassius Clay.

In a special episode, STV celebrates Glasgow’s iconic Citizens Theatre, which in its 70 years has established itself right in the heart of the local community.

As ‘The Citz’ prepares for a major redevelopment project, AngusSimpson looks at the impact of this much loved and unique theatre.

Angus Simpson said: “I’ve always been fascinated by the personal stories behind some of the most famous – and not so famous - events in Scotland’s past. There are many fantastic stories coming up on the People’s History Show, and it’s an absolute delight to be presenting them.”

Executive producer Paul Hughes added: “The People’s History Show continues to be a must-see for anyone with an interest in Scotland’s history. Viewers can expect some truly fascinating stories as Angus and Sarah journey all over Scotland to delve into some of the most remarkable events, places and people of our past.”