Curse of the cold.

It’s a very cold October morning; its 5am and I am in work! Why, oh why, have I left the warmth of my bed? Two words - the BBC……………………………………

Cameraman and sound engineer recording Neil Oliver around the Great Bath.

I have been asked to stand guard over 5 lead curses, as they are presented as part of a new BBC series, ‘The Ancient History of Britain’. The outdoor piece is presented by Neil Oliver (that guy from Coast) and discussed with Dr Roger Tomlin (a really cool and clever Roman Historian).

A cold crew including me!

Filming begins at 6am in front of the Temple Pediment; Neil Oliver delivers his piece quickly and succinctly to camera (a trait which has earned him the nickname of ‘the one hit wonder’). We are soon joined by Dr Tomlin, who is probably one of the most intelligent and enigmatic men I have ever met. Now that the two are together, filming of the curses by the Great Bath can begin……

Vilbia curse tablet

The two men don their gloves, as requested by me, and begin handling and talking about the lead tablets to camera. Filming wraps up by 9:30am and I go in search of a hot mug of tea to warm me up from the cold. I am smiling at the unusual experience I have just had while the rest of the world had been sleeping……….

The series is due to be aired in 2012 so, if like me, you are a bit of an archaeology geek, I suggest you look out for it because it’s going to be good!


Helen Harman - Collections Assistant

P.S. A Happy New Year to you all!

UPDATED 26TH APRIL 2011 - Programme to be aired tonight at 9pm BBC2 series name change 'A History of Celtic Britain' Don't miss it!