A former Skins star has been spotted filming in Kent as part of his latest project.
Alexander Arnold, who played Rich Hardbeck in the E4 series, grew up in Ashford and returned to the town on Saturday to film his directorial debut, 11+.
Alexander Arnold, who played Rich Hardbeck in Skins, grew up in Ashford – and has now used the town to film his new project. Pictures: Diccon Spain
He used Bybrook Nature Reserve in Kennington as the backdrop for scenes in the film as well as the Skyway bridge between Eureka Park and Sainsburys, and Spearpoint Recreation Ground in Kennington.
Mr Arnold had his breakout role at the age of 17 in Skins.
Before that, he attended Norton Knatchbull School and later went to Highworth Grammar School’s Sixth Form, performing in numerous drama productions as well as with Ashford Youth Theatre.
Since then he has appeared in several films and TV series.
His TV work includes Poldark and Save Me while his film work includes David Brent: Life on The Road, The Beatles-themed musical comedy Yesterday, as well as The Outpost (Millennium).
Film crews took to Bybrook Nature Reserve
Recently he has been seen in the scuba diving shark thriller The Last Breath.
The new film, 11+ will mark his first narrative short film as writer-director. It tells the story of two 11-year-olds named Louis and Jordan who are best friends.
In the summer of 2002, they embark on what might be their final adventure together before heading off to different secondary schools.
As one boy is set for grammar school and the other is left to grapple with his own academic struggles.
11+ is a short film about two best friends ahead of their journey to secondary school
After speaking with local ward councillor Diccon Spain (Lab) and The Friends of Bybrook Nature Reserve, he was able to secure Ashford as the main filming location.
He visited various sites across the town earlier this month to assess their suitability before filming commenced.
Cllr Spain, who was on set during the production, said: “It was great to see the talented cast and crew in action.
Alexander Arnold has written and directed his directorial debut 11+
“Watching them craft the film in real-time as a team was a privilege. Thanks to Alex for bringing this production, including many local creatives from Kent, to film this in and around Bockhanger, and Kennington.
“Looking forward to seeing the finished film soon.”
It’s understood the first screening of the film will be at The Ashford Cinema, in Elwick Place but a date is yet to be confirmed.