'The Mill'

Well...it's been a while. I'd apologise and explain but there's really no excuse. Instead I wanted to tell you all about a filming set I'd been working on in the February/March months of this year. The first episode in the four-part drama aired tonight, so I thought this post would be appropriate. A period drama, set in Cheshire, England in the 1800s follows the story of apprentices and their place in the industrial revolution.

Filming on the set of 'The Mill.'

It was incredible fun to work on, and having previous experience on other film sets with various crews, I have to say the crew were absolutely lovely and everyone we worked with were so friendly, professional yet welcoming. Lets just say it was a healthy balance of work and play - not like the real apprentices back in the day - I feel for them, it was cold in rags!

Quarry Bank Mill, Cheshire. Designed to look again like the 1800s.

It really is an odd feeling when you realise that the scenes you are creating actually did happen over 200 years ago, in the same place you are re-enacting them. It feels almost as though we are bringing these people back to life somehow, in the form of film. And it was truly fascinating learning about the lives of the young apprentices: walking their footsteps down the mill's cobbled streets, accompanying straw-filled beds they themselves were accustomed to alongside realistic costume - you really do appreciate how cold they were when all you have to wear is a limp nightdress and shawl for the dormitory scenes!

Night-time filming at Quarry Bank. An early start for the apprentices!

For me, the experience was incredible and I'm so glad I said yes to such an amazing opportunity. One of my resolutions this year was to say yes to more and through these I do feel I've achieved something. I met some inspirational people, made some fantastic friends and learnt a lot!

Apprentices, Red Jack, Purple Jack and the lovely Debbie from make-up!

If you fancy taking a look at the final product, or you're interested in something that opposes the upper-class period drama 'Downton Abbey,' 'The Mill' continues on Channel 4 next Sunday at 8pm. Check it out!