Filming under way on Bridgnorth writer's sitcom
Filming for a Shropshire writer's new sitcom has begun at a Midland nightspot.
Simon Golding, of Bridgnorth, is behind For The Love of Ella. It stars Ewen MacIntosh – who played 'Big' Keith in The Office – as an Eastern European scientist who falls in love with Ella, played by Lucy Drive, who had a small role in The Borgias.
The sitcom also features cameo appearances from comedians Bobby Ball, Darren Day and Billy Pearce, Celebrity Big Brother winner Alex Reid and TV presenter Melanie Sykes.
Filming has been taking place at the Prince Albert in Wolverhampton, which was transformed into an upmarket club, bar and restaurant in 2012. Further footage is due to be shot at Astbury Hall in Bridgnorth, which is owned by former Judas Priest guitarist Ken Downing, while other scenes will be filmed at outdoor locations in London.
Mr Golding, who moved to Bridgnorth 15 years ago, said he came across the Prince Albert during a first date that went wrong. "I came in here on a night out with a woman I had recently met," said Mr Golding.
"As soon as I walked into the place I was completely in awe of how lush and beautiful everything was. I was writing Ella at the time and I knew it would provide the ideal setting for a couple of scenes I had planned.
"Unfortunately the woman didn't seem to share my enthusiasm and left after a couple of hours."
Two scenes are being filmed in the club and bar areas of the Grade II-listed building, both featuring McIntosh and Driver.
Mr Golding has written six episodes of the show, but first the team is hoping to secure a TV deal for the pilot.
"The BBC have already shown an interest and if they follow through with it we will go straight into producing the other episodes," he said.
