A new initiative to attract more filmmakers to Corsham was given a boost when BBC TV’s Countryfile film crew came to town.

Presenter Matt Baker was given a tour in a 1930s Riley-Brooklands car owned by John Coppin, from JF Coppin Jewellers of Church Street.

According to Mr Coppin’s daughter, Daisy, the drive resulted in “lots of laughter.”

Sarah Eastel, who runs a film location business in Bath, is spearheading the Corsham Film Initiative to find outstanding homes and businesses with services to offer that will attract film makers to town.

She said: “I am on a search for impressive streets, schools, pubs or great homes.

Film producers also like to know what an area can offer.”

Ms Eastel, who was instrumental in organising filming for Harry Potter at Lacock Abbey, said: “This could benefit the community in many ways, whether it be production crew looking for a spare prop or the catering crew that have run out of carrots.”

The BBC shot scenes for Tess of the D’Urbervilles in Church Street and Corsham Court grounds, while Neston Park hosted outdoor sets for Lark Rise to Candleford.

Helena Bernald’s house in Paul Street has hosted three photo shoots since January.

She said: “I think sometimes Corsham is overshadowed by Lacock. When people have visited for the shoots it has really opened their eyes to what we have here.”

The CFI project is a public and private scheme backed by the Corsham Community Area Network and the town council.

Cllr Allan Bosley, chairman of the council, said: “This is a way that Corsham can be recognised locally and further afield.”

Organisers behind the initiative say that residents or businesses that want to get involved by offering their property as a possible filming location can contact Sarah Eastel Locations on 01225 858100 or by email to info@film-locations.co.uk