Larry Lamb and Alison Steadman, stars of Gavin and Stacey, have revealed a big behind-the-scenes secret.
The iconic BBC sitcom was set in Barry, South Wales, and Billericay, Essex, but the actors who played Gavin’s (Matthew Horne) parents, Pam and Mick, have claimed they never visited their characters’ hometown.
‘Gavin and Stacey was all recorded in Wales, nobody gave us the option to travel to Essex,’ Larry, 75, told the Radio Times magazine.
‘They said: “Billericay’s where you’re from”, so we just got on with it, we just do what we’re told.’
While shooting Alison and Larry: Billericay to Barry for Gold, the couple paid their first visit to the town and planted a tree in commemoration of their journey.
Larry explained: ‘When we got there on this trip we received a lovely welcome. The town councillors turned out and the mayor was there.’
Alison, 76, added: ‘We planted a tree! It survives, hopefully.’
The performers will drive 200 miles between the two villages in three parts, with lots of stops along the route.
Larry reflected: ‘It felt like unfinished business, particularly going to Billericay.
‘In Gavin and Stacey, Barry got lots of attention, and Billericay was the poor relation. Both have become such famous places.
‘I thought it was a great idea, and I couldn’t think of anybody other than Alison I’d like to do the trip with… well, probably one or two!’
In other Gavin and Stacey house news, Uncle Bryn’s (Rob Brydon) Barry home was listed for sale early this year.
The three-bedroom terraced house with a private garden has been marketed for rent at estate agents Chris Davies for £995 per calendar month.
However, if fans are seeking for something more long-term, the legendary property may also be purchased for £212,000.
Gavin and Stacey, created by James Corden and Ruth Jones, initially aired for three seasons between 2007 and 2010, until the ensemble returned for a one-off Christmas special in 2019.
Gavin & Stacey is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
