Shropshire Magazine

Filming at Acton Scott for Ben’s latest television series.

Ben with canine companions.

The news that Ben Fogle was to present the latest TV show to be filmed in Shropshire, Escape in Time, came as something of a surprise — not least to the production company making the series.As one of their assistants explained: “Lion TV are always saying that Ben Fogle is going to present this or that for us, but it’s been ten years since we produced Castaway in which he co-starred.” The estate at Acton Scott has become something of a film set in recent years. Most notable is Victorian Farm, and its runaway ratings led to the production of a 2009 Christmas special sequel.

The man behind the series, Lion TV’s David Upshal, also persuaded BBC2 to commission Escape in Time on the back of its success.It depicts how everyday families rediscover the practical skills of our forebears, a sort of ‘Generation Game meets The Good Life‘, say the producers.

Louise Acton talks to Ben Fogle and discovers his motivations and ambitions. Read this exclsive interview in the print version of The Shropshire Magazine – available at outlets throughout the county.