BBC News Online: Entertainment

Cameras roll on Crossroads remake

The soap is being filmed at Carlton's studios in Nottingham and on location in the surrounding area.

The series started in 1965, based around a fictional motel, but it was axed after more than 4,500 episodes.

The re-vamped version will feature a number of actors from the original run.

Jane Rossington, who spoke the opening line in the very first episode of the original series, returns as Jill Harvey.

She said: "To have been part of a programme which made television history was wonderful. To be back at Crossroads as the series is reborn is really exciting."

The soap's makers have promised a series of powerful new characters and storylines.

No Benny

But executive producer Sharon Bloom said it would also retain "many of the aspects that made Crossroads such a well-loved programme for so many years".

Former Coronation Street actress Sherrie Hewson will play receptionist Virginia Raven in the Crossroads motel.

Other confirmed cast members include Kathy Staff, who returns as Doris Luke, and Tony Adams, appearing as Adam Chance.

Former Hollyoaks stars James McKenzie Robinson and actor Toby Sawyer have also been signed up.

Fans of the soap will be distressed to hear that handyman Benny, played by Paul Henry, will not return, despite the actor's desire to figure in the new version.

Earlier in the year Henry said he would love to return to the soap.