AS I write this, I have just returned from hosting the launch of the First Impressions project which has been responsible for theming the Elstree & Borehamwood station forecourt and Shenley Road around our film and television heritage.

It is the end of phase one but even in these hard times I hope we can find the money to finish the project by incorporating the former MGM studio site and other historic sites on to the heritage trail.

The event itself went smoothly despite my concerns that both wind and rain would spoil the occasion and a nagging wisdom tooth, but the sun broke through and was kind to us. Part of the event was outdoors and that required us to transport the guests from Elstree Studios to the rail station forecourt.

Thankfully Sullivan buses provided us with two Sixties Routemaster buses. I never thought I would travel along Shenley Road in a bus with Barbara Windsor and Star Wars stormtroopers or watch Yoda disco dance at the reception afterwards.

I must admit it brought back good memories of when I was more active and not having to suffer daytime television but I guess we all have our day.

Burt Kwouk, who played Kato in the Pink Panther films, unveiled the pavement star honouring his old friend Peter Sellers. The two appeared together at MGM in Borehamwood in one of the Pink Panther series entitled A Shot in the Dark. Phillip Madoc, best remembered for his portrayal of Lloyd George on TV, and various episodes of Dr Who along with many other credits, helped unveil the heritage trail plaque with veteran film director John Hough.

However, the undoubted star of the day was Barbara Windsor, who I have the pleasure of having known for many years and who of course spent many years in EastEnders but actually first filmed in Borehamwood more than 50 years ago in a movie with Jayne Mansfield at MGM.

Barbara is so easy to work with as she is a “people person” and is more than happy to pose for photos with fans, sign autographs and join in the fun. I have hosted events with other stars who would never be as willing to participate in the same way, but perhaps that is why Barbara is so well-loved.

I must also pay tribute to the Star Wars fans, who are willing to dress up as characters from the films and lend something different to these occasions. Some of those costumes are not that comfortable, but they do it all for charity.

The great thing about the First Impressions project is that it has involved the community, whether it be the children of Meryfield School or the 1,000 residents who voted to pick the stars to be immortalised in the walk of fame. It brought together people in the design team to provide their much-needed skills and got the local authorities working together with the rail company to make it happen. Our town has a unique film and television heritage and it is long overdue to celebrate that fact.

Finally it was great to hear on the day that First Capital Connect is going to name a train after Elstree Studios, which must be another first. Alas, the company declined my request for free travel whenever it passed through Borehamwood.