BBC One will broadcast a new adaptation of Thomas Hardy's Tess of the D'Urbervilles in the Autumn.

The four-part adaptation was written by David Nicholls and will be produced by BBC Drama Productions.

"Arguably Thomas Hardy is the most neglected of our great literary authors, so I'm delighted to announce this new BBC adaptation of his renowned classic tale of Tess Of The D'Urbervilles," said executive producer Kate Harwood. "Hardy's novel explores love, betrayal and the emotional burden of secrets locked away at the heart of a passionate, loving relationship which, when unlocked, implode with heart-breaking consequences. David Nicholls' adaptation brings Hardy's tragic heroine, Tess, to life with verve, passion and sensitivity."

Filming will start in the West Country in the Spring.