The Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy – Janet Finch-Saunders MS – has today (04 September) heralded the success of a socially distanced production shoot following her visit to the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow, which has been filming at a historic venue in the heart of Conwy county. 

In line with COVID-19 restrictions, the production crew invited only a small number of guests with items to be valued by the show’s experts. The Bodnant Gardens span 80 acres of hillside and includes formal Italianate terraces and informal shrub borders stocked with plants from around the world. This National Trust site is set to feature in the updated film adaptation of The Secret Garden, due to be released later this year. 

Commenting on her visit to Bodnant Gardens yesterday, Janet said:  

“I was delighted to have been invited to view the filming of this beloved BBC One programme at the historic Bodnant Gardens. I was incredibly pleased to witness the innovative ways that this brilliant TV production has adapted so that viewers can continue to be enthralled by the nation’s heirlooms. 

“Whilst production of this programme now moves on, I encourage both local residents and our welcome visitors to visit the beautiful grounds of Bodnant. We are incredibly lucky to have such an expansive 80-acre garden estate on our doorstep. 

“Even under the current circumstances, I am that an army of committed volunteers and currently 6 groundskeepers continue to work tirelessly to maintain this Eden on earth. Their persistent and dedicated handiwork is clearly paying dividends.  

 “With up to 1,500 prebook tickets available daily, this is an unmissable opportunity to view such a large and diverse garden, which is home to some truly unique plants that are only known to exist in Bodnant.” 

ENDS 

Photo: Janet Finch-Saunders visiting Bodnant Gardens