It’s a hard life… managed to get a sun tan last week whilst shooting a Lloyds drama in 25 degrees of blue skies and sunshine at a beautiful country manor. It wasn’t too shabby a pad… a mile long driveway through beautiful grounds, tennis court, swimming pool, sauna and jacuzzi… definitely a good choice!

It was an early start on the Monday, but we kept the crew quiet with lots of bacon sandwiches. It was all hands to the deck – shifting some very heavy office furniture and some scarily white & expensive leather sofas. Thanks to Sarah, Sylvie and Andrew in particular who remarkably transformed the living room into a fancy office. Quite a task!

The first day went smoothly, with Sarah looking after the wardrobe expertly (she never wants to see an iron again), and Katie the 1st AD making sure everyone was in the right place at the right time.

Day 2 at the mansion started with a broken down motorbike and some funny bed and breakfast stories from the crew, which delayed the start slightly, but we soon caught up. Our police cars were soon storming down the driveway, and the arrests were made, causing some alarm to a passing Debenhams delivery driver. Again, a successful day, with a special mention to the Client’s son, Sean Montgomery – a budding young Director – who gave us all some good tips!

Days 3 and 4 were based in London, at the equally glamorous location of Cockfosters. Martin Youngs and his team were an invaluable help at the Holbrook House Offices, setting up our furniture and computers for us, and letting us have everything we need. A big thank you to everyone there who made our lives so much easier.

So, overall – all the hard work paid off, and it was a fun shoot, with some very talented actors and a professional and friendly crew. Well done to everyone involved, and I look forward to showing you all the finished film very soon.