On 30th September 1991, I arrived at a disused airfield near Swindon for an episode of "Casualty".
Our scene was filmed inside an aircraft and we were passenger on the plane that was about to crash onto a motorway. This was my first day of four on this episode, other days were filmed at Bristol Airport during the night when the airport was closed to passengers. Part of a runway that was not used was made to look like a motorway and the nose of the plane was embedded inside the embankment of that motorway. I will describe this scene later this month, It was very interesting being in that part of an exciting episode.
On this same date in 1994, I was in a Leisure Centre in Maidenhead to be in a Comedy drama about Wrestling called " Rumble". I was playing the part of the Timekeeper and sitting next to the Actor playing the part of the Compere. The Actor was the very talented Brian Glover, the former Wrestler/Teacher who had starred in the popular film of it's day "Kes", as the football mad teacher who thought he was Bobby Charlton.
This was the first day of two on that episode and I was to return to Maidenhead in November to finish the scene. Famous Wrestlers in that episode involved Jackie Pallo a very prominent Wrestler on television in those days. I saw that Brian Glover was writing quite a lot that day and I asked him if he was writing another script. "No", he said, " I write for the Yorkshire Post, I get paid well for that".
The actress who played the part of the Wrestler's manager was Leslie Joseph who starred in "Birds of A Feather".
On 30th September 1995, I was in Nottingham to be in an episode of "Peak Practice". It was my first day of two on that programme, I drove home that night and returned the following day to Belper to film the final part of the scenes in that episode.
Monday 30 September 2013
Saturday 28 September 2013
"HOLBY CITY" 2000 - "CASUALTY" 1991 - "EMMERDALE" 2004
On Friday, two days ago, I was in Leeds for another episode "Emmerdale" and and did not arrive back home until 9.30pm therefore my blog was late being posted that day. Yesterday I was in Cambridge being involved with the new film being made about Stephen Hawkin and having arrived in the city for 9.30am and returning home at 8pm. am now catching up on the backlog of reports.
On 28th September 2000, I was on my third day of four on "Holby City". I have mentioned earlier about being called an "old man" when I was not yet 60 years old and following my fourth and final day on that episode I have never worked on that programme since.
On 29th September 1991 I was in Bristol for my fourth episode of "Casualty" in that years series. The last time I was in that studio was on 23rd September 2004, my 57th day on that programme 9 years ago.
" Casualty" is now filmed at the BBC studios in Cardiff, where "Doctor Who" is also filmed.
On 29th September 2004 I was in Leeds for yet another episode of "Emmerdale". Two days ago Friday 27th, was my 94th day of filming at those studios.
On 28th September 2000, I was on my third day of four on "Holby City". I have mentioned earlier about being called an "old man" when I was not yet 60 years old and following my fourth and final day on that episode I have never worked on that programme since.
On 29th September 1991 I was in Bristol for my fourth episode of "Casualty" in that years series. The last time I was in that studio was on 23rd September 2004, my 57th day on that programme 9 years ago.
" Casualty" is now filmed at the BBC studios in Cardiff, where "Doctor Who" is also filmed.
On 29th September 2004 I was in Leeds for yet another episode of "Emmerdale". Two days ago Friday 27th, was my 94th day of filming at those studios.
Friday 27 September 2013
"CHANCER" 1989- "OASIS" 1992-"NEWMAN & BADDEIL" 1993- " BERNARD'S WATCH" 1999
On 27th September 1989, I was in Birmingham to be part of an episode of " Chancer", the ATV series starring Clive Owen. I was only in 2 episodes of that series, my second one was two years later in 1991.
On 27th September 1992, I was in Woolwich, London to be in an episode of "Oasis", a CITV drama series about a group of children who ran an inner city farm, it was also set in wasteland in South London.
The drama series ran from 5th January to 8th March 1993 with 10 episodes made by Zenith North, the team behind "Byker Grove". It starred Peter McNamara and Dean Gaffney( who went on to star in "Eastenders"
Also on 27th September 1993, I was at the BBC television studios in Shepherd's Bush to feature in two scenes in the comedy show " Newman & Baddeil", starring Rob Newman & David Baddeil.
In the first sketch I was one of three factory workers in a German factory ( all three of us had been chosen because we all looked almost identical. We were painting miniature models and our Supervisor, played by David Baddeill enters and is not happy with our work. He picks up the black paint and flies into a tirade concluding with him getting pain on his finger and brushing it under his nose. The punch line was that he looked like Hitler.( I did not think that it was very funny). The second sketch involved me with others standing in a circle and the camera was in the middle of us supposedly looking down on a body on the floor.
Some comment was made by Rob Newman that created his kind of comedy which in those days appealed to the student population in the early 1990's.
On this day in 1999, I was in Nottingham to be in another episode of " Bernard's Watch" the ATV children's series about a boy who owned a magic watch that would suspend time so that he could change situations.
On 27th September 1992, I was in Woolwich, London to be in an episode of "Oasis", a CITV drama series about a group of children who ran an inner city farm, it was also set in wasteland in South London.
The drama series ran from 5th January to 8th March 1993 with 10 episodes made by Zenith North, the team behind "Byker Grove". It starred Peter McNamara and Dean Gaffney( who went on to star in "Eastenders"
Also on 27th September 1993, I was at the BBC television studios in Shepherd's Bush to feature in two scenes in the comedy show " Newman & Baddeil", starring Rob Newman & David Baddeil.
In the first sketch I was one of three factory workers in a German factory ( all three of us had been chosen because we all looked almost identical. We were painting miniature models and our Supervisor, played by David Baddeill enters and is not happy with our work. He picks up the black paint and flies into a tirade concluding with him getting pain on his finger and brushing it under his nose. The punch line was that he looked like Hitler.( I did not think that it was very funny). The second sketch involved me with others standing in a circle and the camera was in the middle of us supposedly looking down on a body on the floor.
Some comment was made by Rob Newman that created his kind of comedy which in those days appealed to the student population in the early 1990's.
On this day in 1999, I was in Nottingham to be in another episode of " Bernard's Watch" the ATV children's series about a boy who owned a magic watch that would suspend time so that he could change situations.
Wednesday 25 September 2013
"CASUALTY" - 1994 - 5th day as Christmas Tree Fancy Dress Character
Today I would like to welcome all my new Page-viewers from Indonesia. Are you able to receive all the TV programmes that I have been writing about so far ? Which are your favourites?
On 27th September 1994, I was in Bristol once again for my fifth day of filming in my Christmas Tree fancy dress costume. As I put it on, it fell down from my neck to my ankles in the shape of an upright pyramid.
It was decorated with candles, baubles and miniature christmas presents and on my head was a headband with an upright wire on top of which was a silver star. Many comedy actors look for opportunitues to increase the comedy with the aid of props and I thought that by nodding my head as if I was drunk, would add to the character that I was playing. The Director liked the idea and let me use it when we were filming the scenes. The episode was screened during the period leading up to Christmas 1994, so I do not expect many people now involved with "Casualty" will still remember that concussed character 19 years ago.
In a few days time I will be writing about my involvement in a specific comedy series where I was picked out to play a part in two scenes from the comedy show " Newman & Baddeil" in 1993.
On 27th September 1994, I was in Bristol once again for my fifth day of filming in my Christmas Tree fancy dress costume. As I put it on, it fell down from my neck to my ankles in the shape of an upright pyramid.
It was decorated with candles, baubles and miniature christmas presents and on my head was a headband with an upright wire on top of which was a silver star. Many comedy actors look for opportunitues to increase the comedy with the aid of props and I thought that by nodding my head as if I was drunk, would add to the character that I was playing. The Director liked the idea and let me use it when we were filming the scenes. The episode was screened during the period leading up to Christmas 1994, so I do not expect many people now involved with "Casualty" will still remember that concussed character 19 years ago.
In a few days time I will be writing about my involvement in a specific comedy series where I was picked out to play a part in two scenes from the comedy show " Newman & Baddeil" in 1993.
Tuesday 24 September 2013
"COMMON PURSUIT" 1990- "BERKELEY SQUARE" 1997- "HOLBY CITY" 2000
On 25th September 1990, I was in Oxford to take part in a British Drama "Common Pursuit", following the lives of a group of friends who met at University. The TV programme starred Stella Gonet, Kevin McNally, Tim Roth and Stephen Fry.
Seven years later in 1997, I was in Bristol taking part in a British Drama TV series "Berkeley Square", originally broadcast on BBC One. Set in 1902, it focussed on three young women who were all employed as nannies by wealthy families living on exclusive Berkeley Square in the West End of London.
It was filmed in Chevenage House, Tetbury, Gloucestershire: Priddy in Somerset: Stanway House, Gloucestershire and Bristol. The scenes in which I was involved were all filmed in Bristol. The series starred Clare Wilkie, Victoria Smurfit, Tabatha Wady and Rosemary Leach.
Another 3 years later in 2000, I was at the BBC Elstree studios for my second day of three in "Holby City", where I had been referred to as " an old man" three days earlier. I was to return three days later on 28th September and also on 2nd October to film other parts of that scene. I have never been back since.
Seven years later in 1997, I was in Bristol taking part in a British Drama TV series "Berkeley Square", originally broadcast on BBC One. Set in 1902, it focussed on three young women who were all employed as nannies by wealthy families living on exclusive Berkeley Square in the West End of London.
It was filmed in Chevenage House, Tetbury, Gloucestershire: Priddy in Somerset: Stanway House, Gloucestershire and Bristol. The scenes in which I was involved were all filmed in Bristol. The series starred Clare Wilkie, Victoria Smurfit, Tabatha Wady and Rosemary Leach.
Another 3 years later in 2000, I was at the BBC Elstree studios for my second day of three in "Holby City", where I had been referred to as " an old man" three days earlier. I was to return three days later on 28th September and also on 2nd October to film other parts of that scene. I have never been back since.
"LOVEJOY" 1985 - " CROSSROADS" 1987
The 24th September is my Birthday and I have only worked on two programmes on this day in 28 years.
1985 and I was in Debenham, Suffolk, about 20 miles north of Ipswich, to be in my 3rd episode of "Lovejoy", the series about a dodgy antiques dealer starring Ian McShane as Lovejoy.
My first episode on this series had been on 22nd May 1985, which was only my second experience of being on a Television series.
Two months later in July 1985, I had gone to Birmingham to have an interview with the Casting Agent for "Crossroads", Barbara Plant. I had taken a publicity photograph of myself as a "pop singer" and had arrived wearing a smart suit. I found the interview quite an experience and became very optimistic about the outcome until she asked if I had brought a photo. When I showed her the photo of me in a stage suit, she said "Have you got one with yourself just looking casual ? This one is not really acceptable." My heart sank and I thought that this interview was going to be a failure. I then told her that I had already been involved in a training film for "Kodak" employees, an episode of "Marjorie and Men" for Anglia TV and an episode of "Lovejoy". "That's more experience than a lot of people I interview", she replied. "Are you free next Thursday, for an episode of "Crossroads"?. I immediately said "Yes" and she then asked me to arrive at the ATV studios in Birmingham by 8.30am the following week.
Thursday 11th July 1985 was my first involvement with "Crossroads" and from that date in 1985, Barbara booked me for 7 episodes of " Crossroads" before that first series came to an end, but also booked me for 14 episodes of "Boon" , and 2 episodes of "Chancer" starring Clive Owen.
I have never worked on my Birthday since that day in 1987 ( 26 years ago).
1985 and I was in Debenham, Suffolk, about 20 miles north of Ipswich, to be in my 3rd episode of "Lovejoy", the series about a dodgy antiques dealer starring Ian McShane as Lovejoy.
My first episode on this series had been on 22nd May 1985, which was only my second experience of being on a Television series.
Two months later in July 1985, I had gone to Birmingham to have an interview with the Casting Agent for "Crossroads", Barbara Plant. I had taken a publicity photograph of myself as a "pop singer" and had arrived wearing a smart suit. I found the interview quite an experience and became very optimistic about the outcome until she asked if I had brought a photo. When I showed her the photo of me in a stage suit, she said "Have you got one with yourself just looking casual ? This one is not really acceptable." My heart sank and I thought that this interview was going to be a failure. I then told her that I had already been involved in a training film for "Kodak" employees, an episode of "Marjorie and Men" for Anglia TV and an episode of "Lovejoy". "That's more experience than a lot of people I interview", she replied. "Are you free next Thursday, for an episode of "Crossroads"?. I immediately said "Yes" and she then asked me to arrive at the ATV studios in Birmingham by 8.30am the following week.
Thursday 11th July 1985 was my first involvement with "Crossroads" and from that date in 1985, Barbara booked me for 7 episodes of " Crossroads" before that first series came to an end, but also booked me for 14 episodes of "Boon" , and 2 episodes of "Chancer" starring Clive Owen.
I have never worked on my Birthday since that day in 1987 ( 26 years ago).
Monday 23 September 2013
" FORD ADVERT" 1993- "CASUALTY" 1994-"CASUALTY" 1997-"PEAK PRACTICE" 1999-"CASUALTY" 2004
The 23rd September 1993 was my second day on the Ford Advert with the Cosworth Racing Team cars at Ladybower Dam in Derbyshire. The Location was the site where the famous Dambusters Squadron practiced their low level bombing before hitting the Dams in the Ruhr Valley in Germany during the 2nd World War.
One year later I was on my third day as the Man in a Fancy Dress Christmas Tree outfit, which was referred to for many years after when I was filming later episodes of that "Casualty" series.
3 years later on 23rd September 1997, I was again in Bristol involved in episode 15 of that year's series.
2 more years and I had returned to the Peak District of Derbyshire for another episode of " Peak Practice". The location on that day was the village of Ashover and was another one of the 26 episodes that I was in between 1992 and 2001.
5 more years later I was again in Bristol for another one of the 60 episodes that I was in between 1988 and 2004.
One year later I was on my third day as the Man in a Fancy Dress Christmas Tree outfit, which was referred to for many years after when I was filming later episodes of that "Casualty" series.
3 years later on 23rd September 1997, I was again in Bristol involved in episode 15 of that year's series.
2 more years and I had returned to the Peak District of Derbyshire for another episode of " Peak Practice". The location on that day was the village of Ashover and was another one of the 26 episodes that I was in between 1992 and 2001.
5 more years later I was again in Bristol for another one of the 60 episodes that I was in between 1988 and 2004.
"CASUALTY" 1994 - "HOLBY CITY" 2000 - "EMMERDALE" 2005
On the 22nd September 1994, I was in Bristol for my second day as a concussed man dressed in a fancy dress costume as a Christmas Tree in an episode of " Casualty" screened around the Christmas Period of that year. My head-wear was an elasticated headband with a wire star rising upwards which, when I nodded my head, swung in all directions to the amusement of all that saw it. That episode contained a motor=cyclist that had died in a road accident, a premature baby death, and various other unsavoury incidents. The following scenes would see me in the background, trying to operate a lift, staggering around the casualty reception area looking at Christmas cards and generally giving a humourous break from the intense story line.
On 22nd September 2000, I was at the BBC Elstree Studios to be in an episode of " Holby City", a spin-off series from "Casualty". I was playing the part of a patient in bed on one of the wards. This was my first day of four days within two weeks when I was involved in this episode.I was not very happy with the Director who was directing a young actress playing the part of a nurse. " He said to her " Can you just pause and look at the old man in the bed as you walk past?" I thought, ' Old Man? cheeky sod, I was only in my late 50's,
since those 4 days I have never accepted any further work on "Holby City".
On 22nd September 2005, 8 years ago, I was at the YTV Studios in Leeds for my 58th day on "Emmerdale".
The crew, Directors, and Actors are all very friendly and it is a pleasure fro me to be able to continue to accept work on that programme. Other Supporting Artistes tell me that they experience the same friendly welcome themselves.
On 22nd September 2000, I was at the BBC Elstree Studios to be in an episode of " Holby City", a spin-off series from "Casualty". I was playing the part of a patient in bed on one of the wards. This was my first day of four days within two weeks when I was involved in this episode.I was not very happy with the Director who was directing a young actress playing the part of a nurse. " He said to her " Can you just pause and look at the old man in the bed as you walk past?" I thought, ' Old Man? cheeky sod, I was only in my late 50's,
since those 4 days I have never accepted any further work on "Holby City".
On 22nd September 2005, 8 years ago, I was at the YTV Studios in Leeds for my 58th day on "Emmerdale".
The crew, Directors, and Actors are all very friendly and it is a pleasure fro me to be able to continue to accept work on that programme. Other Supporting Artistes tell me that they experience the same friendly welcome themselves.
Saturday 21 September 2013
"HOWARD'S WAY" 1989 : "ALL QUIET ON THE PRESTON FRONT" 1994
The 21st September 1989 was my second day at the Pebble Mill Studios in Birmingham for an episode of " Howard's Way", the very popular BBC drama series about a yacht-building firm on the South Coast of England. My first day of involvement had been on the previous day and my yesterday's blog hopefully gave you a reasonable amount of information about the programme.
On the 21st September 1994, I was in Kidderminster for my second day of involvement in "All Quiet on the Preston Front". This was a BBC comedy drama about a group of friends in the fictional Lancashire town of Roker Bridge and their links to the Territorial Army infantry patrol. It was created by Tim Firth and starred Alistair McGowan, Colin Buchanan, Stephen Tompkinson, Caroline Catz and Kate Gartside.
The first episode was screened on 4th January 1994 and the final episode on 8th September 1997.
On the 21st September 1994, I was in Kidderminster for my second day of involvement in "All Quiet on the Preston Front". This was a BBC comedy drama about a group of friends in the fictional Lancashire town of Roker Bridge and their links to the Territorial Army infantry patrol. It was created by Tim Firth and starred Alistair McGowan, Colin Buchanan, Stephen Tompkinson, Caroline Catz and Kate Gartside.
The first episode was screened on 4th January 1994 and the final episode on 8th September 1997.
Friday 20 September 2013
"HOWARD'S WAY" 1989 : "CASUALTY" 1994
On 20th September 1989 I was at the BBC Pebble Mill Studios in Birmingham for my first day of two to film an interior scene of "Howard's Way". The exterior scenes were filmed on location on the South Coast.
In 1985 BBC One launched a new Sunday evening drama set on the South Coast of England "Howard's Way" ran for six seasons and was one of the biggest TV hits of the decade.
It was based around a yacht-building company set in the fictional town of Totton and starred Maurice Colbourne as Tom Howard, Jan Harvey as his wife Jan, with supporting roles from Glyn Owen as Jack Rolfe, Dulcie Gray as Kate Harvey, Nigel Davenport as Sir Edward Frere and Kate O'Mara as Laura Wilde.
My scene was filmed in Birmingham and the set was a room in a pub overlooking the sea and I was in a group of people singing the song "Sailing". It seemed strange sitting in the studio in the centre of England and it being so realistic that I was in a pub on the South Coast looking out at a sea view.
During one of the breaks in filming, I was sitting in the foyer outside the studio when an actor friend of mine, Arnold Peters, who played Jack Wooley in the radio series "The Archers" came into the room and was surprised to see me there. He asked me what I was involved with and when I told him it was on "Howard's Way" he asked where Maurice Colbourne was. I told him the he was still in the studio but then I asked Arnold what he was doing at Pebble Mill. He told me that Pebble Mill housed the sound studios where they recorded "The Archers".( I should have known!)
"Film Night" with Barry Norman was being filmed in an adjoining studio to the one where we were filming and celebrities from all walks of life were often on that programme. After Arnold had left the room I went to sit back in my seat but found that the England cricketer, Ian Botham was sitting in it. I was just about to tell him that he was sitting in my seat but, when I recognised who he was, I decided to find another seat.
On 20th September 1994, I was again in Bristol for my first day of three in an episode of " Casualty".
I had been told that I would be wearing a Father Christmas outfit for that episode which was being screened in December. I was taken to the wardrobe department but could not see a Father Christmas outfit. The wardrobe mistress then told me that I would be wearing a Christmas Tree fancy dress outfit. Initially, I was very surprised but then decided I could do my own comedy input by nodding my head on which I was wearing a headband with a star attached to a wire. As I nodded my head the star wobbled in all directions.
It made the other supporting artistes laugh when I went back to the Green Room but when I went on to the set, I kept nodding my head and when you genuinely make the crew laugh you know that it is really funny.
I was supposed to be a man who had gone to a Fancy Dress Party and had fallen over and became concussed. I acted like a drunk person for all the three days I was on that episode and when we were filming other scenes around the streets of Bristol, the public wondered whatever I was doing in that costume.
Over the following months when I was in subsequent episodes of " Casualty", I was always referred to "Here's the drunk Christmas Tree".
In 1985 BBC One launched a new Sunday evening drama set on the South Coast of England "Howard's Way" ran for six seasons and was one of the biggest TV hits of the decade.
It was based around a yacht-building company set in the fictional town of Totton and starred Maurice Colbourne as Tom Howard, Jan Harvey as his wife Jan, with supporting roles from Glyn Owen as Jack Rolfe, Dulcie Gray as Kate Harvey, Nigel Davenport as Sir Edward Frere and Kate O'Mara as Laura Wilde.
My scene was filmed in Birmingham and the set was a room in a pub overlooking the sea and I was in a group of people singing the song "Sailing". It seemed strange sitting in the studio in the centre of England and it being so realistic that I was in a pub on the South Coast looking out at a sea view.
During one of the breaks in filming, I was sitting in the foyer outside the studio when an actor friend of mine, Arnold Peters, who played Jack Wooley in the radio series "The Archers" came into the room and was surprised to see me there. He asked me what I was involved with and when I told him it was on "Howard's Way" he asked where Maurice Colbourne was. I told him the he was still in the studio but then I asked Arnold what he was doing at Pebble Mill. He told me that Pebble Mill housed the sound studios where they recorded "The Archers".( I should have known!)
"Film Night" with Barry Norman was being filmed in an adjoining studio to the one where we were filming and celebrities from all walks of life were often on that programme. After Arnold had left the room I went to sit back in my seat but found that the England cricketer, Ian Botham was sitting in it. I was just about to tell him that he was sitting in my seat but, when I recognised who he was, I decided to find another seat.
On 20th September 1994, I was again in Bristol for my first day of three in an episode of " Casualty".
I had been told that I would be wearing a Father Christmas outfit for that episode which was being screened in December. I was taken to the wardrobe department but could not see a Father Christmas outfit. The wardrobe mistress then told me that I would be wearing a Christmas Tree fancy dress outfit. Initially, I was very surprised but then decided I could do my own comedy input by nodding my head on which I was wearing a headband with a star attached to a wire. As I nodded my head the star wobbled in all directions.
It made the other supporting artistes laugh when I went back to the Green Room but when I went on to the set, I kept nodding my head and when you genuinely make the crew laugh you know that it is really funny.
I was supposed to be a man who had gone to a Fancy Dress Party and had fallen over and became concussed. I acted like a drunk person for all the three days I was on that episode and when we were filming other scenes around the streets of Bristol, the public wondered whatever I was doing in that costume.
Over the following months when I was in subsequent episodes of " Casualty", I was always referred to "Here's the drunk Christmas Tree".
Wednesday 18 September 2013
"VOTE FOR THEM" 1988- "CASUALTY" 1994- "BORN & BRED" 2003
On 19th September 1988, I arrived at Bridgenorth, a railway station on the Severn Valley Railway, for an episode of " Vote for them". It was a three part drama series from BBC Pebble Mill set amongst Allied troops in Cairo during the 2nd World War who consider what sort of world they want after the war and form "parties" holding debates and elections. I was in a scene on the station platform made to look like a 2nd world war station with an authentic steam train and coaches. My second scene in that programme was to be filmed in the studios at Pebble Mill, Birmingham one month later on October 23rd.
The three episodes were screened on 2nd,9th and 16th June 1989.
On 19th September 1994, I was in Bristol for my first day of two in an episode of "Casualty".
On multiple days of filming, I would always book into accommodation for a night or two in order to reduce the car travelling to and from the studio and home, which would otherwise commence around 4.30am and conclude with my return at 10.30pm.
On 19th September 2003, I was at Bray Studios near Windsor to be in my 11th and final day of filming in "Born & Bred", the comedy series was actually set in Lancashire and was about a Family Doctor's Practice run by a Father and Son played by James Bolam and Michael French. It centred around that family and the cast also included Maggie Steed, Clive Swift and John Henman. It also centred around a Station Master's house and his daughter, the station master was played by John Henman.
I was in 6 episodes of that series, which ran from 2002 to 2005.
The three episodes were screened on 2nd,9th and 16th June 1989.
On 19th September 1994, I was in Bristol for my first day of two in an episode of "Casualty".
On multiple days of filming, I would always book into accommodation for a night or two in order to reduce the car travelling to and from the studio and home, which would otherwise commence around 4.30am and conclude with my return at 10.30pm.
On 19th September 2003, I was at Bray Studios near Windsor to be in my 11th and final day of filming in "Born & Bred", the comedy series was actually set in Lancashire and was about a Family Doctor's Practice run by a Father and Son played by James Bolam and Michael French. It centred around that family and the cast also included Maggie Steed, Clive Swift and John Henman. It also centred around a Station Master's house and his daughter, the station master was played by John Henman.
I was in 6 episodes of that series, which ran from 2002 to 2005.
Tuesday 17 September 2013
"CASUALTY" 1999:"CASUALTY" 2001: "EMMERDALE" 2003
On the 18th September 1999, I was in Bristol to be filmed in my first day of two in my 45th day of involvement in "Casualty", Episode 15 of that years series. My call time was 7.30am and the wrap time was 8pm.( over twelve hours in the studio on that day.)
The 18th September 2001 and I was again in Bristol for my 55th day on "Casualty", Episode 21 of that year's series. My call time on that day was 10.30am and the wrap time was 7.15pm, just under 9 hours on that day.
On 18th September 2003, I was in Leeds for my 74th episode in " Emmerdale". On this day my call time was 7.30am. and the my wrap time on that day was 4pm.
I have mention call times and wrap times to highlight the time spent on location or in studios and in addition to those hours is the time spent travelling to and from those locations.
Exiting news from yesterday, when it was confirmed that I have won the part of a Cambridge University Professor in a film now in production about Stephen Hawkin starring Eddie Redmayne ( Marius- in Les Miserables) in the lead role.
The 18th September 2001 and I was again in Bristol for my 55th day on "Casualty", Episode 21 of that year's series. My call time on that day was 10.30am and the wrap time was 7.15pm, just under 9 hours on that day.
On 18th September 2003, I was in Leeds for my 74th episode in " Emmerdale". On this day my call time was 7.30am. and the my wrap time on that day was 4pm.
I have mention call times and wrap times to highlight the time spent on location or in studios and in addition to those hours is the time spent travelling to and from those locations.
Exiting news from yesterday, when it was confirmed that I have won the part of a Cambridge University Professor in a film now in production about Stephen Hawkin starring Eddie Redmayne ( Marius- in Les Miserables) in the lead role.
Monday 16 September 2013
" Moonstone" 1996 and 6 other programmes
First of all today, thank you for all the page-viewers especially the large majority of whom are in the U.S.A.
On this day the 17th September, I have worked on 7 different programmes.
1991 - Witchcraft : 1993 - House of Elliott: 1995 - Call Red: 1996 - Moonstone: 1998 - Emmerdale: 1999 Casualty and 2012 - Emmerdale.
I have already mentioned 6 of these programmes which I have been involved with on other dates.
On 17th September 1998, I arrived at Burghley House, Nr. Stamford to be in a scene in the TV movie " The Moonstone" starring Greg Wise and Keeley Hawes.
the story was about " When the fabulous Moonstone Diamond is stolen, all the suspects apparently have alibis. Even the young girl who owns the diamond won't say whom she saw took it.
Other stars in the film includes Antony Cher, Patricia Hodge and Peter Vaughan.
On this day the 17th September, I have worked on 7 different programmes.
1991 - Witchcraft : 1993 - House of Elliott: 1995 - Call Red: 1996 - Moonstone: 1998 - Emmerdale: 1999 Casualty and 2012 - Emmerdale.
I have already mentioned 6 of these programmes which I have been involved with on other dates.
On 17th September 1998, I arrived at Burghley House, Nr. Stamford to be in a scene in the TV movie " The Moonstone" starring Greg Wise and Keeley Hawes.
the story was about " When the fabulous Moonstone Diamond is stolen, all the suspects apparently have alibis. Even the young girl who owns the diamond won't say whom she saw took it.
Other stars in the film includes Antony Cher, Patricia Hodge and Peter Vaughan.
"PRESTON FRONT" 1994: " EMMERDALE" 2002: " SINGING CACTUS" 2004
On 16th September 1994, I arrived at the location in Coventry to be involved in another episode of " All Quiet on the Preston Front", a comedy series starring Colin Buchanan who later starred as Pascoe with Warren Clarke in " Dalziel & Pascoe".
On 16th September 2002, I was again in Leeds for my 38th day of filming on "Emmerdale".
On 16th September 2004, I was at the BBC Pebble Mill studios in Birmingham to be in an Afternoon Play,
Season 3 episode 5 entitled "The Singing Cactus" starring Peter Capaldi ( the new Dr. Who), Melanie Hill ( Aveline from Bread) and a 16 year old Ray Quinn ( Tony Murray in Brookside).
The programme was screened on 28th January 2005.
On 16th September 2002, I was again in Leeds for my 38th day of filming on "Emmerdale".
On 16th September 2004, I was at the BBC Pebble Mill studios in Birmingham to be in an Afternoon Play,
Season 3 episode 5 entitled "The Singing Cactus" starring Peter Capaldi ( the new Dr. Who), Melanie Hill ( Aveline from Bread) and a 16 year old Ray Quinn ( Tony Murray in Brookside).
The programme was screened on 28th January 2005.
Sunday 15 September 2013
" BOON" 1989 & " EMMERDALE" 2005
On 15th September 1989, I was in Nottingham to be in my 7th episode of "Boon", a modern day western about a motor cycle dispatch rider Ken Boon and his side-kick Rocky, starring Michael Elphick as Ken & Neil Morrissey as Rocky, also David Daker as Harry and Brigit Forsyth as Helen.
I was in 13 episodes between 1986 and 1992 with the first couple of years in Birmingham and the latter ones in Nottingham. The catchy theme tune was "The Lone Ranger" and the episode names were a play on words. "Don't buy for me Argentina"- "One re-born every minute"- "Walking off-air"- "The fall and rise of the Bowman Empire" and the episode that I was in on that day "Do not forsake me" which was screened on 20th November 1989.
Then also on 15th September 2005, I was in Leeds for my 57th day of involvement in " Emmerdale".
I have now been in so many episodes of "Emmerdale" that I cannot remember precisely what I was doing on that day other than I was there at 7.30am. and left at 6.15pm. having been involved in filming part of two episodes either in the Studio or on location in the village.
I was in 13 episodes between 1986 and 1992 with the first couple of years in Birmingham and the latter ones in Nottingham. The catchy theme tune was "The Lone Ranger" and the episode names were a play on words. "Don't buy for me Argentina"- "One re-born every minute"- "Walking off-air"- "The fall and rise of the Bowman Empire" and the episode that I was in on that day "Do not forsake me" which was screened on 20th November 1989.
Then also on 15th September 2005, I was in Leeds for my 57th day of involvement in " Emmerdale".
I have now been in so many episodes of "Emmerdale" that I cannot remember precisely what I was doing on that day other than I was there at 7.30am. and left at 6.15pm. having been involved in filming part of two episodes either in the Studio or on location in the village.
Friday 13 September 2013
"EMMERDALE" 2009
The 14th September 2009 and I am back in Leeds for my 71st day on a set for "Emmerdale".
The only information I can find is that I was involved in 2 episodes on that day. Since that day 4 years ago, I have attended 21 more days nd been in 44 more episodes.
Since filming my first episode on 14th June 1993, I have appeared in 169 episodes over the past 20 years.
The only information I can find is that I was involved in 2 episodes on that day. Since that day 4 years ago, I have attended 21 more days nd been in 44 more episodes.
Since filming my first episode on 14th June 1993, I have appeared in 169 episodes over the past 20 years.
Wednesday 11 September 2013
" HOUSE OF ELLIOTT" 1991 & " THE LAST SALUTE" 1997
The 12th September 1991 was my third and final day on that episode of "House of Elliott". Our two dance routines had been honed to perfection and we spent all of that day shooting the two scenes that involved those dances. Over those past days I had been returning to stay the night at the home of a Toastmaster colleague of mine at Stroud in Gloucestershire. It was a pleasant journey and saved me the long return journey that would have been another 135 miles to Kettering and therefore made them very long driving hours after a lengthy filming day in Bath.
6 years later, on this day in 1997, I arrived at RAF Warrington, 4 miles south of Swindon, to be in an episode of "The Last Salute", a comedy TV series about an on-the-road comic adventures and roadside dramas of a group of rival AA & RAC patrol men, each out to prove that they are the best in the business in Britain in the 1960's. The series starred Paul Brown, Philip Jackson, Jo Unwin and Claire Cox.
The scene that I was involved with was set on a Main Road ( which was actually a dis-used runway on the Airfield that had been set to look like an accident on a busy road.)
The only series of that programme was screened in 1998.
6 years later, on this day in 1997, I arrived at RAF Warrington, 4 miles south of Swindon, to be in an episode of "The Last Salute", a comedy TV series about an on-the-road comic adventures and roadside dramas of a group of rival AA & RAC patrol men, each out to prove that they are the best in the business in Britain in the 1960's. The series starred Paul Brown, Philip Jackson, Jo Unwin and Claire Cox.
The scene that I was involved with was set on a Main Road ( which was actually a dis-used runway on the Airfield that had been set to look like an accident on a busy road.)
The only series of that programme was screened in 1998.
Tuesday 10 September 2013
"HOUSE OF ELLIOTT" 1991 & "CASUALTY" 2002
11th September 1991 and I am back in Bath for my second day of dancing the on-step and the waltz in an episode of "House of Elliott" starring Louis Lombard & Stella Gonet.
Although the choreographer had supervised our rehearsals throughout the previous day, she was still not happy with our performances and so we again continued to practice our dances before the Director requested a "Take". My dancing partner was a dancing teacher from Leicester who enabled me to improve my dancing skills with her expertise and friendly advice.
Twelve years later on 11th September 2002, I was in Bristol for my 58th episode of "Casualty. My first episode was in 1991and my last one was in 2004, which was my 60th appearance on that programme.
Included in those episodes I have played only one credited role as a Boxing Master of Ceremonies/Referee, and minor speaking roles as a Security Guard, and a Drunken Reveller from a Christmas Party (Dressed in a Christmas Tree fancy dress costume).
Although the choreographer had supervised our rehearsals throughout the previous day, she was still not happy with our performances and so we again continued to practice our dances before the Director requested a "Take". My dancing partner was a dancing teacher from Leicester who enabled me to improve my dancing skills with her expertise and friendly advice.
Twelve years later on 11th September 2002, I was in Bristol for my 58th episode of "Casualty. My first episode was in 1991and my last one was in 2004, which was my 60th appearance on that programme.
Included in those episodes I have played only one credited role as a Boxing Master of Ceremonies/Referee, and minor speaking roles as a Security Guard, and a Drunken Reveller from a Christmas Party (Dressed in a Christmas Tree fancy dress costume).
HOUSE OF ELLIOTT" 1991:"BRITTAS EMPIRE" 1996:"JUDGE JOHN DEED" 2001
On 10th September 1991, I had arrived in Bath for my first day of three in another episode of "House of Elliott". The location was a large Victorian Ballroom in the centre of Bath. On this first day some of us were auditioned to be ballroom dancers and I was successful. We rehearsed the one-step and a waltz with a professional choreographer who put us through our paces throughout the morning and afternoon.
No filming was done on that day but on the following two days we were filmed performing both dances in separate scenes for that episode.
5 years later in 1996, I arrived at a Leisure complex in Ringwood near Bournemouth to be in an episode of "The Brittas Empire", a British sit-com about an incompetent manager of a leisure centre. The main role was played by Chris Barrie, who was famous for his role in "Red Dwarf".
The scene I was involved with involved him working on repairing a faulty roof and eventually falling off into a pile of manure in the car park of the leisure centre where I was playing the part of a member of the fitness centre. This popular series ran from 1991 to 1997.
5 more years later in 2001, I was in Bushey, Hertfordshire, near to Elstree Studios for an episode of " Judge John Deed", a BBC legal drama starring Martin Shaw, Jenny Seagrove and Donald Sinden.
The series ran from 2001 to 2007 and I was in an episode of series one.
The only thing that I can remember about that day was the catering. Martin Shaw is a vegetarian and our breakfast and lunch were all vegetarian options, even the pet dog of the director was given vegetarian food.
I was only involved in that one episode over those 7 years.
No filming was done on that day but on the following two days we were filmed performing both dances in separate scenes for that episode.
5 years later in 1996, I arrived at a Leisure complex in Ringwood near Bournemouth to be in an episode of "The Brittas Empire", a British sit-com about an incompetent manager of a leisure centre. The main role was played by Chris Barrie, who was famous for his role in "Red Dwarf".
The scene I was involved with involved him working on repairing a faulty roof and eventually falling off into a pile of manure in the car park of the leisure centre where I was playing the part of a member of the fitness centre. This popular series ran from 1991 to 1997.
5 more years later in 2001, I was in Bushey, Hertfordshire, near to Elstree Studios for an episode of " Judge John Deed", a BBC legal drama starring Martin Shaw, Jenny Seagrove and Donald Sinden.
The series ran from 2001 to 2007 and I was in an episode of series one.
The only thing that I can remember about that day was the catering. Martin Shaw is a vegetarian and our breakfast and lunch were all vegetarian options, even the pet dog of the director was given vegetarian food.
I was only involved in that one episode over those 7 years.
Sunday 8 September 2013
"ANIMAL ARK" 1997
On 9th September 1997 I had arrived at Frampton-on-Severn in Gloucestershire to be in a scene in "Animal Ark", a Television series based on a popular book series by Lucy Daniels about a veterinary surgeon's daughter and her friend who rescue animals in their village .
Frampton-on-Severn was very close to The Wildfowl Trust in Slimbridge which had been set up by Sir Peter Scott and my journey to that location had taken me through the beautiful Cotswold Hills in the early morning of that day as the dawn began to break and the mist was hovering over the hills in an early autumn serenity.
The parts of the daughter and her friend were played by Karianne Henderson and James Simmons and the scene I was involved with was filmed on the village green of that pretty Gloucestershire village.
Tomorrow, I reflect on the first of a three day run on "House of Elliott" in 1991, my only episode on the comedy series "The Brittas Empire" in 1996 and a day on the set of "Judge John Deed " in 2001 with Martin Shaw.
Frampton-on-Severn was very close to The Wildfowl Trust in Slimbridge which had been set up by Sir Peter Scott and my journey to that location had taken me through the beautiful Cotswold Hills in the early morning of that day as the dawn began to break and the mist was hovering over the hills in an early autumn serenity.
The parts of the daughter and her friend were played by Karianne Henderson and James Simmons and the scene I was involved with was filmed on the village green of that pretty Gloucestershire village.
Tomorrow, I reflect on the first of a three day run on "House of Elliott" in 1991, my only episode on the comedy series "The Brittas Empire" in 1996 and a day on the set of "Judge John Deed " in 2001 with Martin Shaw.
Friday 6 September 2013
"NO BANANAS" 1995 :"THE CHOIR" 1994
On the 7th September 1995, I drove down to Tonbridge Wells in Kent to be in an episode of "No Bananas", a wartime mini-series starring Alison Steadman,Stephanie Beacham, Michael Elwyn and Rachel Power.
It was a round trip of 257 miles taking me through the Dartford tunnel en route both ways. It was another long day that had begun at 3.30 am and ended on my return later the same day. My added consolation was that, because it was a war-time drama, I was paid an extra fee for having my hair cut in a short back and sides fashion.
On 7th September 1994, one year earlier, I had driven to Gloucester to be in a mini-series called " The Choir", written by Joanna Trollope. I arrived at the location which was Gloucester Cathedral for a scene that involved many of the principal actors including James Fox, Peter Vaughan and David Warner.
Our scene was inside the Cathedral which filmed a large procession of clergy and a very dramatic sermon from the James Fox character. The local newspaper had printed an article informing the local residents that this scene was being filmed in Gloucester and inviting them to participate if they wished.
Our relaxation area was on a Double Decker bus parked outside in Archdeacon Street which was also being used by the administration assistant. My journey home was via Cheltenham, Banbury and Northampton which took 3 hours on that 200 mile round trip with the added awareness that I would need to make the trip again in mid October for another scene in the Cathedral.
It was a round trip of 257 miles taking me through the Dartford tunnel en route both ways. It was another long day that had begun at 3.30 am and ended on my return later the same day. My added consolation was that, because it was a war-time drama, I was paid an extra fee for having my hair cut in a short back and sides fashion.
On 7th September 1994, one year earlier, I had driven to Gloucester to be in a mini-series called " The Choir", written by Joanna Trollope. I arrived at the location which was Gloucester Cathedral for a scene that involved many of the principal actors including James Fox, Peter Vaughan and David Warner.
Our scene was inside the Cathedral which filmed a large procession of clergy and a very dramatic sermon from the James Fox character. The local newspaper had printed an article informing the local residents that this scene was being filmed in Gloucester and inviting them to participate if they wished.
Our relaxation area was on a Double Decker bus parked outside in Archdeacon Street which was also being used by the administration assistant. My journey home was via Cheltenham, Banbury and Northampton which took 3 hours on that 200 mile round trip with the added awareness that I would need to make the trip again in mid October for another scene in the Cathedral.
"WITCHCRAFT" 1991 & "HONEY FOR TEA" 1993
On 6th September 1991, I was again in Aston Subedge for my third day on the TV series "Witchcraft".
I have described my experiences on this production over the past two blogs but have not yet mentioned the main characters that were played by Peter McEnery, Alan Howard and Clive Wood.
Two years later on 6th September 1993, I was in Cambridge to be in an episode of "Honey for Tea", a mini series starring the very attractive Felicity Kendal.
The scene that I was involved in was filmed on the banks of the River Cam, opposite The Backs at Trinity College. The male co-star of that episode was Nigel Le Vaillant ( who I had acted alongside previously in many episodes of the very popular TV medical drama "Casualty").
I have described my experiences on this production over the past two blogs but have not yet mentioned the main characters that were played by Peter McEnery, Alan Howard and Clive Wood.
Two years later on 6th September 1993, I was in Cambridge to be in an episode of "Honey for Tea", a mini series starring the very attractive Felicity Kendal.
The scene that I was involved in was filmed on the banks of the River Cam, opposite The Backs at Trinity College. The male co-star of that episode was Nigel Le Vaillant ( who I had acted alongside previously in many episodes of the very popular TV medical drama "Casualty").
Wednesday 4 September 2013
"WITCHCRAFT" 1991 : "EMMERDALE" 2001
5th September 1991 was my second day on the BBC TV drama "Witchcraft" which was on location in Gloucestershire. My day had begun at 3.30am and my 148 mile journey took me via Northampton, Banbury, Stowe on the Wold to the village of Aston Subedge. In those days before sat-navs, when you were reasonable close to the location you had to look out for a "unit sign", a temporary roadside arrow with a letter on it. For "Witchcraft" it was the letter W, but on the second morning I saw a unit sign with ED on it and further along the road was the sign for "Witchcraft". I was later informed that the ED sign was to the location for " The Mystery of Edwin Drood", a film that was released in 1993, that was being filmed near Chipping Camden which was very close to where our location was situated.
I recall on one of my 4 days on "Witchcraft that a couple of hikers who were walking in the area came across our set and said that they had lived in that area all their lives and did not realise that there was a village in the area. It did look very realistic and they were told that it was only a film set that had been specially constructed for the film.
Ten years later on 5th September 2001, I was again in Leeds for my 34th day on "Emmerdale". It was only two weeks ago that I was in Leeds for my 92nd day on the programme. I believe that I will be seen in an episode of "Emmerdale", in the Woolpack, either tonight (thursday) or tomorrow, sitting behind Bernice and Steve and Nicola and Jimmy.
I recall on one of my 4 days on "Witchcraft that a couple of hikers who were walking in the area came across our set and said that they had lived in that area all their lives and did not realise that there was a village in the area. It did look very realistic and they were told that it was only a film set that had been specially constructed for the film.
Ten years later on 5th September 2001, I was again in Leeds for my 34th day on "Emmerdale". It was only two weeks ago that I was in Leeds for my 92nd day on the programme. I believe that I will be seen in an episode of "Emmerdale", in the Woolpack, either tonight (thursday) or tomorrow, sitting behind Bernice and Steve and Nicola and Jimmy.
Tuesday 3 September 2013
"WITCHCRAFT" 1991
On the 4th September, I arrived at location in a field near a village called Aston Subedge, close to Broadway in Gloucestershire for my first day on a TV drama called "Witchcraft.
On the hillside of this field the production had built a temporary medieval village solely for the purpose of this programme. The TV drama was about a crew making a film about witchcraft. The director gets rather carried away and endangers the lives of his cast.
I travelled from home to location for all 4 days that I was involved in those scenes a total of 580 miles, leaving home at 3.30am and not arriving back until 10pm.
The scene that I remember most clearly is where the Witch Catcher has caught a young witch and placed her on the gallows. He kicked the chair away and she wriggled on the rope until she was dead.
At the end of that shot when the real director shouted "cut". The actress playing the part opened her eyes and the table was placed under her feet and she stood up while the scene was re-adjusted to do another shot.
The rope around her neck was threaded through a strong wire that continued from the top of the gallows to a harness that was attached around her shoulders and waist.
The first time I watched that scene I was surprised how realistic the effect was. We were involved in quite a few "takes" until the director was satisfied.
On the hillside of this field the production had built a temporary medieval village solely for the purpose of this programme. The TV drama was about a crew making a film about witchcraft. The director gets rather carried away and endangers the lives of his cast.
I travelled from home to location for all 4 days that I was involved in those scenes a total of 580 miles, leaving home at 3.30am and not arriving back until 10pm.
The scene that I remember most clearly is where the Witch Catcher has caught a young witch and placed her on the gallows. He kicked the chair away and she wriggled on the rope until she was dead.
At the end of that shot when the real director shouted "cut". The actress playing the part opened her eyes and the table was placed under her feet and she stood up while the scene was re-adjusted to do another shot.
The rope around her neck was threaded through a strong wire that continued from the top of the gallows to a harness that was attached around her shoulders and waist.
The first time I watched that scene I was surprised how realistic the effect was. We were involved in quite a few "takes" until the director was satisfied.
Monday 2 September 2013
"KILLING ME SOFTLY" 1995
On 3rd September 1995, I was on location in Warwick to be in a scene from the TV movie " Killing me softly" starring Maggie O'Neill (Dr. Alex Redman in Peak Practice) and Peter Howitt ( Joey Boswell in Bread, the popular BBC series written by Carla Lane, that ran from 1986-1991).
I had previously worked in a scene with Peter Howitt in a programme called "Civvies" in 1992 when I played the part of a Chief Fire Officer in one of the episodes which was filmed in Cardiff.
The story of "Killing me softly" was about a female computer programmer who has a torrid love affair with a famous mountaineer and then discovers that he hides a very dark secret.
I was only involved in walking up and down a street in the middle of Warwick which was nowhere near where the torrid love scenes were being filmed.
I had previously worked in a scene with Peter Howitt in a programme called "Civvies" in 1992 when I played the part of a Chief Fire Officer in one of the episodes which was filmed in Cardiff.
The story of "Killing me softly" was about a female computer programmer who has a torrid love affair with a famous mountaineer and then discovers that he hides a very dark secret.
I was only involved in walking up and down a street in the middle of Warwick which was nowhere near where the torrid love scenes were being filmed.
Sunday 1 September 2013
"CASUALTY" 1998
Yesterday was also one day of the year where I have never been involved in any Film or TV production.
On 2nd September 1998, I was at the studios in Bristol to be in the 15th episode of that years series of the BBC medical drama "Casualty". This was my 4th day on the programme in that year, between 1991 and 2004, I appeared in 60 episodes of " Casualty".
So far "Casualty" is the only programme that I have played a credited role. In December 1997 I played the part of a Boxing Master of Ceremonies who was also the Referee in episode 23 entitled "Taking Sides" which was broadcast in 1998. (View Bobby Civil IMDb).
Previously I had dialogue as a Security Guard and had also been featured as a drunk man in a fancy dress costume, a press reporter, and a casualty from a plane crash. All other appearances saw me either as a visitor to the hospital or as a patient waiting for treatment in A & E.
All my days were based at that Bristol studio by the BBC have now relocated the "Casualty" studio to Cardiff at the same studio that is currently producing " Doctor Who".
On 2nd September 1998, I was at the studios in Bristol to be in the 15th episode of that years series of the BBC medical drama "Casualty". This was my 4th day on the programme in that year, between 1991 and 2004, I appeared in 60 episodes of " Casualty".
So far "Casualty" is the only programme that I have played a credited role. In December 1997 I played the part of a Boxing Master of Ceremonies who was also the Referee in episode 23 entitled "Taking Sides" which was broadcast in 1998. (View Bobby Civil IMDb).
Previously I had dialogue as a Security Guard and had also been featured as a drunk man in a fancy dress costume, a press reporter, and a casualty from a plane crash. All other appearances saw me either as a visitor to the hospital or as a patient waiting for treatment in A & E.
All my days were based at that Bristol studio by the BBC have now relocated the "Casualty" studio to Cardiff at the same studio that is currently producing " Doctor Who".
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