The Ruby in the Smoke - Recollections of a film fan

Original film poster: Source internet.

While Sunderland Point readies itself to become the backdrop to a blockbuster TV production - ITV The Bay Series 5 - we cast our minds back to the heady days of a popular film which also used The Point to re-create an exciting and atmospheric story, ‘The Ruby in the Smoke’.

Billy Piper kindly agreed to be photographed by Alan during filming: Photo by Alan Smith

A cracking adventure and originally a novel by Phillip Pullman, ‘The Ruby in the Smoke’ was a BBC full length feature film made in 2006. During the long hot summer of that year Sunderland Point was transformed into a Victorian seaside and fishing resort, featuring its own Inn, ‘The Turk’s Head’, where much of the action took place. 

‘The Turks Head’ sign: Photo by Peter Gilchrist

Without spoiling the plot for those who will undoubtedly want to seek out the film after reading this article, young Sally Lockhart [Billie Piper] is determined to discover the truth behind her father’s death, ably assisted by her true and loyal friend Jim Taylor [Matt Smith]. In hot pursuit is the deadly Mrs. Holland, [Julie Walters], a woman determined to mastermind the demise of Sally Lockhart]. I’m going to leave the plot there………

Screen shots from the film: Source BBC  

Looking towards First Terrace and the Turks Head.

On First Terrace with Billy Piper.

During the week before filming a crew of set builders arrived to change the appearance of some of the houses to fit the theme of ‘Victorian seaside resort’. Number 11 became The Turk’s Head. Martin Morris, who lived there was delighted that his home had become a pub despite the interior of his living room becoming rather grubby and stained with soot from the fake oil lamps. Wooden benches and rickety tables were installed. 

Inside ‘The Turks Head’: Photo by Peter Gilchrist 

Inside ‘The Turks Head’: Photo by Peter Gilchrist.

On the river, boats were moved out of shot and mooring buoys sunk, it wouldn’t do to have a huge orange ball floating round in the background. Attention to detail was paramount.

Navigation buoy made for ‘Ruby’ film set: Photo by Peter Gilchrist.

Nothing prepared us for the number of film crew that arrived on the first day of filming. There were hordes of them! There was an encampment of trailers on the Globe Carpark in Overton which served as dressing rooms and make up. The cast, crew and extras were transported by minibus and car across the tide road, among that number was Matt Smith who subsequently became the eleventh Dr Who.  

Matt Smith in ‘Ruby’: BBC promotional photo

On the first day of filming, he jumped out of the minibus that transported him to Sunderland Point and said “This is nice, whereabouts in Yorkshire are we?” He was soon put right! 

An extra in ‘Ruby’ on the corner of the Wynt: Photo by Alan Smith

As residents, I think we were all a little starstruck by being in such proximity to theatrical royalty, but all hopes of chatting with Billie Piper and Julie Walters were dashed. They were working, between takes they sat in the back of an air-conditioned car reading their scripts, while extras were positioned, location shots lined up and rehearsed, and production assistants helped and directed residents as they endeavored to go about their business. Making a film is a lengthy process involving a lot of waiting around for various reasons.

During filming of ‘Ruby’ on First Terrace: Photo by Alan Smith.

Crowd control was a bit of an issue as numerous members of the public had come to watch the filming, however when the director shouted ‘Silence, Action!’ we all dutifully complied and watched with interest as the magic was created.

Outside numbers 6 and 7 during ‘Ruby’: Photo by Alan Smith

The front of number 4 cleverly disguised: Photo by Alan Smith

The weather was perfect and Sunderland Point looked as beautiful as ever. The sun shone, the river sparkled in the sunshine, apparently everything was going well, but it was very hot and uncomfortable for the actors and extras in their heavy period costumes. Unfortunately, Julie Walters became unwell, but soldiered on until the end of the first day, however on the second day she was unable to perform due to heatstroke. Subsequently, we learned (to my secret joy) that she was to return in a couple of weeks with a much-reduced filming entourage.

Screen shot of Julie Walters in ‘Ruby’: Source BBC

The unexpected extension of filming meant that ‘the set’ had to remain in place to await the return of Julie to film those missing scenes. The locals needed no encouragement to gather in the Turks Head with ‘landlord’ Martin and enjoy a tipple or two. I have a hazy recollection that it was a right good night!

Screen shot of Matt Smith and Billy Piper from ‘Ruby’: Source BBC

The filming finally concluded with the return of Julie Walters and just a few crew to film and direct. The excitement and interest by the public had already waned, leaving just residents to welcome this lovely and talented actor, who freely chatted and laughed with those who joined her between takes. It was all very relaxed as she regaled us with tales of her interesting career. What a privilege, and a day I won’t forget.

The late Chris Davies in the spirit of ‘Ruby’ outside a disguised number 8: Photo by Alan Smith

To finish, I should probably tell you that if you ever use the bathroom at number 8, just know that Billie Piper once sat here. Impressed?