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Portlogan on TV

PORTLOGAN is firm favourite to become the backdrop for a new television series that could bring more than £3 million into the area.

 

The "Free Press" can reveal that the small South Rhins village is almost certain to be chosen as the location for a new BBC hit drama. And, with the announcement, will come promises of unprecedented visitors and money to the area.

Film crews have been scouting the West of Scotland for weeks to find a suitable location for the new drama series.

It had seemed certain that Aberdeenshire village Pennan - immortalised in the film Local Hero - was to be used again by the BBC. But, a dispute with the laird of that village has allowed Portlogan to jump to the head of the queue.

Zenith Productions, the company behind the programme which will feature former 'Eastenders' star Michelle Collins, are expected to make a final announcement in just over a week. The "Free Press" understand, however, that a fast approaching shooting schedule and the threat of future unrest in Pennan has made Portlogan firm favourites. And, with three follow ups planned if the show is a hit, the benefits will be worth millions.

Scottish Screen's Kevin Cowle said Zenith were finding it very difficult to wait on Pennan, which was still their preferred location.

"Zenith will honour their promise to wait until a referendum in the village is carried out", he said. "However, even if it is overwhelming support for the shoot, unless the laird withdraws her objection, which she says she will not, then Pennan will miss out".