AN INDUSTRIAL unit being used as the base for cult TV programme Robot Wars is bringing a welcome boost to Renfrew.

The BBC show has returned to the town for a second series, based in a warehouse next to the Westway Park estate.

And, since filming resumed last month, the show has injected almost £1 million into the local economy.

More than 50 jobs were created when the team filmed series one back in March and the ambition now is to build on that.

Executive producer Andrew Robertson said: “I couldn’t believe it when we found this building here in Renfrew. It is absolutely perfect for Robot Wars.

“A lot of people have been asking us how we decorated the place but we haven’t done a thing.

“All we have done is light the place. It has that fantastic, industrial feel that fits in with Robot Wars.

“It also goes without saying that it’s a huge building - it’s the first time I’ve been able to drive around a new set in my car.

“We have also brought around 60 new jobs to the area and injected almost £1 million into the local economy. It’s a fantastic place to be.”

Robot Wars was first shown on the BBC from 1988 until 2001, becoming a cult favourite amongst viewers.

In January this year, the BBC confirmed it would be re-launching the show, with Dara O Briain and Angela Scanlon as hosts.

Forty teams of amateur robot fighting enthusiasts battle it out over a series of rounds in a purpose-built arena, each aiming to become the Robot Wars champion.

But it’s not just the competition they have to contend with, as the arena is patrolled by four huge House Robots which are geared up to attack anyone who strays into their Corner Patrol Zones.

There are also a series of hazards designed to cause maximum damage to the competitors.

In between fights, teams have time to repair their robots and plan for their next challenger.