Dad's Army: 'Thank you Old Town'

Oliver Parker, the film's director, praised residents and businesses for their "terrific collaboration" during a speech by the key production figures, prior to last night's screening at Bridlington Spa.

He said: “Bridlington was one of the first places I saw and finding that was so crucial. There was Bempton, Flamborough and all these locations that came together. It was a good, attractive proposition.

“It really leant an atmosphere. I think locals have embraced it. We really loved the experience but it wasn’t easy in that we we were shooting in last winter - light was dwindling every afternoon.

"But people were right behind us. There was a great sense of support both from the crew and supporting cast and facilities. So it felt like a terrific collaboration."

While Bridlington was not the first location to be considered, the Dad's Army team immediately fell in love with the area and set about covertly surveying the area.

Addressing a packed Spa Royal Hall, strewn with 1940s nostalgia and Dad's Army memorabilia, he said: “In true Dad’s Army style we didn’t want to look too confident on our doing it here.

“We snuck around the streets when Simon Bowles, the production designer, stopped outside a newsagents and saw: ‘New film to be filmed in Old Town’

“We ended up coming to Bridlington”.

“This film was always destined for Yorkshire. It could see us coming!"

Andy Picheta, the film's location manager, thanked residents for their patience after closing their businesses temporarily to allow filming to take place.

"Old Town is a collection of individuals - people who are getting on with their lives and working in businesses," he said.

"On one hand, they welcomed us to work here. On the other hand, there was a sense of trepidation about how their businesses will be affected us.

"You will see your efforts have paid off for something wonderful."

The Dad's Army Film marches out across cinemas everywhere tomorrow (Friday February 5).