Hebburn series two: filming begins

Image: Jason Cook

Stars of BBC2’s Hebburn were re-united in Manchester today – as filming began on series two.

The cast, including creator Jason Cook (Ramsey), Steffen Peddie (Big Keith) and Neil Grainger (Gervaise), traveled to MediaCity UK this morning to prepare for the second installment of the award-winning comedy.

And Cook, who celebrates his 40th birthday today, spoke of his delight at “bringing the family back together” on set.

He said: “Everyone is more than excited to get started with the filming, and it’s at this point that all of the different departments start to come together.

“We had a read-through of the scripts recently and it was just phenomenal.

“Hearing the script out loud for the first time is a big test of the jokes and it’s when you find out what works and what needs a little more TLC.”

Series two of Hebburn sees the introduction of two new characters, while one of the current cast members is to change jobs. (Our money’s on Gervaise).

Cook said: “We’ve got some new cast members too and they’re fitting in perfectly. They were very carefully chosen and I think we made the right choice with them.

“I can’t wait for people to see them.”

The first series, which was directed by Christine Gernon and produced by Gill Isles, was shot on location in Hebburn and in studios at MediaCityUK in Salford.

Series two will follow the same pattern, with the cast scheduled to visit the North East town for the sitcom’s exterior shots.

The six-part series will air in the autumn, followed by a Christmas special.