CAMERAS crews have descended on south Essex to film scenes for a new BBC comedy series.

Lorries with lighting equipment were seen parked up outside a block of flats in Ballards Walk, Laindon, on Friday.

The BBC confirmed to the Echo filming was underway for White Gold, a six-part comedy series set in the Eighties.

It is written and directed by Inbetweeners creator Damon Beesley and stars Joe Thomas and James Buckley - best known for playing Simon and Jay in the hit Channel 4 show.

White Gold is set in a double glazing showroom in Essex, led by charismatic salesman Vincent - played by Gossip Girl and Son of Rambow actor Ed Westwick.

According to the BBC: “It is a story of dodgy shenanigans, scams and petty rivalries - alongside free-flowing drugs, cash and sex.”

Filming will take place at various locations across Essex over the next seven weeks - including in Southend, Stanford-le-Hope and Corringham.

People living and working in Ballards Walk said they were shocked the block of flats had been chosen by directors.

Lisa Lee, supervisor at The Off Licence, which is opposite the building, said: “It’s really unusual that they chose to film here.

“You don’t usually get this here at all, I have never seen anything like it before.

“There were lots of people milling around to have a look. It was a bit of excitement for our Friday morning.

“I hope the show doesn’t put Basildon in a bad light.”

The six half-hour episodes will be shown on BBC2 next year.

Mr Beesley, who grew up in Stanford-le-Hope, said: “I would like to thank the BBC for giving us this glorious opportunity to recreate the Essex of my youth - a time before the invention of ‘Essex girls’ jokes, fake tan or Towie.

“A time when having double-glazed patio doors installed meant you were winning at life.

“It’s hugely exciting to work with such a talented, brilliant cast.”

Mr Westwick added: “I am very excited to be stepping into the world of White Gold. It’s brilliantly crafted and very unique, a special piece.

“I’m sure a great road lies ahead.”