A new documentary broadcast on RTÉ One tonight examines the Belfast childhood of C.S. Lewis and its influence on his work. The programme, titled 'The Lion, The Witch and the Ulsterman', is presented by former Ireland rugby international Andrew Trimble and explores the author's roots in East Belfast.

Lewis was born in Belfast, and the documentary looks at how his early life and family experiences influenced his writing. It suggests that his connection to the city shaped the themes found in 'The Chronicles of Narnia', his famous fantasy series.

The programme also discusses Lewis's Ulster-Scots heritage and his Irish identity. It argues that he is often associated with England rather than Northern Ireland, though he spent much of his adult life in Oxford.

Andrew Trimble, who is from Belfast, said that as a father he has seen how the Narnia stories resonate with children. He added that he was surprised by the depth of Lewis's connection to Belfast and proud to highlight the writer's Irish roots.

The documentary features contributions from historians and writers, including Dr Margaret O'Callaghan, Jan Carson, Professor Suzannah Lipscomb, Dr Frank Ferguson, Rev Dr Reggie Weems and Dr David Clare. It uses extracts from Lewis's autobiography 'Surprised by Joy' and 'The Chronicles of Narnia'.

The programme was funded by the Northern Ireland Screen Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund. It airs tonight at 10.15pm on RTÉ One and will be available on the RTÉ Player.