‘OFF to a very good start’, was how Crom Castle manager, Noel Johnston, described last Sunday evening’s first episode of the second season of BBC drama ‘Blandings’.
The second series was also filmed on location at Crom, and Noel was delighted at what he saw, and with the response he has received since it aired.
“It was a huge boost for the whole thing. It was definitely a whole lot better, all the reviews I have read have been fantastic. I haven’t heard anything negative.
“I know it doesn’t affect us really, but in a roundabout way it does help Fermanagh because if people are relating to it and like the area, it can only benefit us. The potential tourism from it is phenomenal. You couldn’t buy the publicity.
“I know Lord and Lady Erne were very pleased with it as was Lord Crichton. There is definitely more of an appeal to it this time round, and the new director, Mandie Fletcher has certainly put a different spin on it.
“It has still got the English humour, but it was easier to follow and genuinely funny. I watched it with my wife and three boys and we actually laughed at it. We will have to see how the next episodes go, but it is a great start.”
Noel then reported he had been inundated with calls from well wishers who enjoyed Sunday’s episode.
“People from England and all over have been ringing up to congratulate us and asking where Crom is, telling us they will definitely visit Fermanagh.
“It is not often something like this happens in Fermanagh, especially Newtownbutler and Lisnaskea. Of course it is about us getting a good fee, but it is really about the county.”
Noel is eagerly awaiting the next episode on Sunday, but in the long-term hopes the show will become a hit, not just here, but internationally.
“I honestly think they’re on to something really special. That’s 13 episodes now filmed and that’s is the minimum number of episodes a country will buy to screen.
“The American market, I think would go mad for it and the French love it. If they can sell the show to the global audience, then that would really help. It would not only make money, but would put Crom and Fermanagh on the map.”
The second season of Blandings continues on Sunday next, 23rd February at 6.30pm on BBC One.
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