Some of Britain’s favourite actors caused a stir in Herne Bay today when they filmed a new comedy for the BBC.

Film crews parked their trucks in Hampton and recorded footage on the seafront there and at the Central Bandstand.

The Hat Trick Production programme filmed a pilot for Grey Mates in Herne Bay in September last year, and returned to the seafront for the new series.

Stars such as Russ Abbot, Alison Steadman and Stephanie Beacham were on set attracting attention from passers-by.

Bandstand cafe owner Hassan Hassan greeted some of the stars. He said: “I think it’s fantastic not just for the Bandstand but for the town. It raises the profile for Herne Bay.

“It’s not the first time film crews have used the venue, we’ve had BBC and radio productions doing different things here.

“A few years ago we had Little Britain filming on the seafront, and I’m a big fan of David Walliams.

“To have the likes of Stephanie Beacham and Russ Abbot here is great, they are high profile stars so will really help to promote the area and keep Herne Bay in the spotlight.”

The stellar cast will feature in the ups and downs of three couples living in the town of Thurnemouth, Norfolk’s only west facing resort.

It is due to appear on our screens later this year.