The making of Witchfinder

Locations

Jimmy's Farm

The main locations were for the 'swimming' scene, the fair, the trial and the hanging. Following an initial recce by Kerry King, the video Director, John Worland, gave his opinion.

They both agreed that Jimmy's Farm was the most suitable for the scene where a suspected witch was 'swum'. Not only did realism need to be considered but practicalities such as where do 80 people change into costume and are there toilets available! Health and Safety was also a priority and Brian Butcher made sure that any hazards were noted and any risks minimized.

For the trial, John looked into the possibility of using the Long Gallery at Layer Marney Tower. This proved to be a great find as the ambience was perfect and it had all the facilities to support filming where a lot of people were involved.

Furze Hill, Mistley was ideal for both the fair and the hanging so these scenes were shot on the same day.

One of the most difficult was the inside of the 'Thorn Inn', 1645 style. John discovered a barn at a local farm and the owners were extremely helpful not only in allowing us to use their property but also in providing toilet facilities and drinks. Kerry managed to find other local people and publicans very willing to help and provide us with locations to shoot some of the indoor scenes.

John had arranged with Colchester Castle that we use the cells for when the women were imprisoned. This was a very evocative and moving scene to be involved in for both the cast and the crew as this was where the women being depicted in the film had actually been imprisoned.

Stoke by Nayland was another location where outdoor street scenes were shot as some of the houses are ideal.

Many thanks go to all of those who were so helpful and supported us by providing us with super locations to work in.