The Stage

League of Gentlemen’s Shearsmith to star in ITV1 hotel comedy

Published Thursday 30 August 2007 at 14:10 by Matthew Hemley

Reece Shearsmith and Pam Ferris are to appear in an ITV1 comedy drama set in an Eastbourne hotel that has been left in the hands of a hapless assistant manager over Christmas.

Christmas at the Riviera, made by Hotel Babylon producer Carnival Films, stars The League of Gentlemen’s Shearsmith as the assistant manager Ashley Dodds, who, left in charge at the last minute, is determined to make it a festive holiday to remember.

However, his plans go wrong when the guests start arriving and soon seasonal goodwill is put to the test.

Ferris plays man-eating divorcee Avril, alongside Warren Clarke as the cantankerous Maurice and Alexander Armstrong as Reverend Miles Rogers.

It has been written by Mark Bussell and Justin Sbresni.

ITV director of drama Laura Mackie said: “Justin Sbresni and Mark Bussell’s lively and captivating script combines their talent for high comedy with poignant drama and captures all the highs and lows of the festive season.”

Carnival Films managing director Gareth Neame added: “This comedy drama film for Christmas, with its prestigious cast and creative team, further underlines Carnival’s commitment to build an exciting and diverse range of drama productions.”