Happy tourists will flock to drama set

Undated BBC Handout Photo from Happy Valley. Pictured: Catherine (SARAH LANCASHIRE). See PA Feature TV Lancashire. Picture Credit should read: PA Photo/BBC/Red Productions. WARNING: This picture must only be used to accompany PA Feature TV Lancashire. WARNING: Use of this copyright image is subject to the terms of use of BBC Pictures' BBC Digital Picture Service. In particular, this image may only be published in print for editorial use during the publicity period (the weeks immediately leading up to and including the transmission week of the relevant programme or event and three review weeks following) for the purpose of publicising the programme, person or service pictured and provided the BBC and the copyright holder in the caption are credited. Any use of this image on the internet and other online communication services will require a separate prior agreement with BBC Pictures. For any other purpose whatsoever, including advertising and commercial prior written approval from the copyright holder will be

Set in Calderdale, the stunning scenery and places featured in the programme have given the perfect backdrop to the dark crime drama.

Tourism officials say the impact of the show, both locally and nationally, will see interest in the town rise.

Calderdale Council’s Principal Tourism Officer, Katie Kinsella, pictured right, said: “Happy Valley has been a hugely successful drama for the BBC, and it’s certainly got people talking locally and nationally. The storyline is very dramatic and often dark, but the spectacular scenery of Calderdale shines through, and provides a real juxtaposition to the intense storyline.

“Many areas throughout the country are used for crime dramas and the effect is not deemed detrimental because the audience is aware of the fictional nature of the programme.

“Raising Calderdale’s profile through filming can have positive impacts on our economy, including potential job creation, local spending by filming companies and a boost in visitor numbers.

“Last Tango in Halifax, is a prime example, the drama is popular with visitors to the area and we receive lots of enquiries in our Halifax Visitor Information Centre about wanting to stay in Halifax and explore the area where the series is filmed.

“We support lots of filming activity, from high-profile adverts to dramas. Calderdale Council has signed a ‘Film Friendly Partnership charter’, which means we are committed to encouraging the development of film and television production in our area.”

Written by Calderdale’s Sally Wainwright, the series has millions of people gripped by the story of Catherine Cawood played by Sarah Lancashire. The final episode will be shown on Tuesday at 9pm.