Tea Room Facing Closure Filmed for David Mitchell Series
A volunteer-run community hub in Hemel Hempstead needs to raise £25,000 by the end of October to avoid permanent closure, despite hosting filming for the BBC series 'Ludwig'.
The Liberty Tea Rooms and Community Hub in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, is at risk of closing permanently unless it can raise £25,000 by the end of October. The charity, which provides support for individuals facing hardship, is currently in an "extremely low cash position," according to its trustees.
Filming for the third series of the BBC comedy 'Ludwig,' starring David Mitchell, has been taking place at the venue. The production team temporarily transformed the tea room's frontage to resemble a bank, its previous incarnation before becoming a community hub.
Mark Kitson, chairman of the trustees, stated that the filming has generated a positive atmosphere. "Lots of towns and high streets are having tough times at the moment," Kitson said. "When you come into the Tea Rooms, someone will welcome you, talk to you if you want a chat, offer a meal if you need it, and can also provide debt advice or a food bank parcel. You might just want tea and a scone, but if you need something more, we will do our very best to help you."
The tea room has been closed from September 15 until October 7 for the filming. The production is utilizing both the interior and exterior of the building, with plans to use a rain machine for one scene. The trustees noted that the film crew will restore the tea room to its original state upon completion of filming, in addition to repairing a broken window and updating signage.
"The filming has been brilliant," Kitson added. "It's created a real buzz and excitement on Hemel Hempstead High Street, and for our team and volunteers, they have also paid us a fee for being in the building at a time that we really need the extra funds."
Despite the temporary financial boost and positive attention from the filming, the charity's trustees have emphasized the urgent need to raise £25,000 to ensure its continued operation. The venue provides essential support services, including offering meals, debt advice, and food bank parcels to those in need.