HOLLYWOOD has come to rural Suffolk as one of its villages is chosen as the prime location for a film by Ridley Scott's production company.A short film, God's Wounds, directed by Wayne Holloway, is currently being filmed in the quiet village of Middleton on the Heritage Coast.

HOLLYWOOD has come to rural Suffolk as one of its villages is chosen as the prime location for a film by Ridley Scott's production company.

A short film, God's Wounds, directed by Wayne Holloway, is currently being filmed in the quiet village of Middleton on the Heritage Coast.

It is being produced by Ridley Scott Associates, the commercial production company created by Gladiator director Ridley Scott and his brother Tony.

Producer Emma Cairns said: “We were stunned by Middleton, and its tradition of Molly Dancing and Morris Dancers set so well with the themes of the film.

“Everyone has been incredibly accommodating and supportive and we've tried to involve lots of local people.”

God's Wounds is about trying to preserve rural life and traditions and explores the relationship between country life and outside influences.

“Middleton as a place is keen to preserve traditions and that again tallied with the themes of the film,” said Ms Cairns.

Once completed, the film will be used as a trailer in a bid to get financing for a feature film of the same title.

Filming started yesterday at the Bell Inn, an Adnams pub, and is expected to last four days.

The film stars Lee Whitlock, who was in wartime comedy Shine on Harvey Moon, and young actresses Christina Cole and Emily Beecham.

It is not the first time Middleton has attracted film crews, according to local residents. It was used for Lovejoy many years ago, Escape to the Country and, most recently Jonathan Creek.

“It's great to get Suffolk on the map,” said Russell Turner, the location manager, who lives in Bury St Edmunds.

The filming in the Bell Inn has come as a shock for the newly installed landlord John Moxon, of Reydon, who only moved into the premises last Tuesday .

He said: “It's come as a rapid induction into the world of film making.

“This film is one way of getting greater exposure from the point of view that we are new to the pub and the trade. We are grateful for any exposure that can be given.”

Schoolchildren from Middleton Primary School will watch the filming on Friday to learn more about the industry.

The crew will be filming at Heveningham Hall today and then they will return to Middleton for two more days.