14 hours ago
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The Christmas special of Gavin and Stacey has wrapped up with the show script put in a raffle - but rather than pocketing the proceeds they are raising money for charity.
Robert Wilfort, 47, who played Jason West, Stacey Shipman's brother in the series donated his script to inclusive theatre company Theatre Shed, which provides workshops in Chesham and Amersham.
They have been asking for a £5 donation for entry to the raffle, which will take place on Janaury 13, and so far have raised a whopping £31,285.
Explaining how it came about Robert said: “So we were filming on the special, the finale episode, and lots of people were getting various different things signed for charities, pictures and things, and I thought a signed script might be great.
“I thought that might really capture people’s imagination, so it’s signed by all of the main cast and the director, and I decided to give it to Theatre Shed, because they are a charity I’ve had a long association with, based locally near me, and they’re just the most amazing charity.
"I've always been a big admirer of their work, and think they do a fantastic job," he enthused.
While he expected it to prove popular, James admitted "it’s kind of surpassed everyone’s expectations."
"It just goes to show how popular the show has been," he reflected.
The final episode of Gavin and Stacey, which aired on BBC One was the most watched show across all channels on Christmas Day.
The finale episode saw Smithy (played by James Corden) and Nessa (Ruth Jones) finally get married after he jilted Sonia (Laura Aikman) at the altar.
James opined: "We all knew the script was brilliant, but you never can tell until the whole thing comes together what the reaction is going to be.
"But it seems both press and public have just completely loved it, and it's so satisfying for all of us," he said.
"I just feel so, so lucky to be part of something that brings joy to people. It feels a bit like coming back to the real world now," he added.
English (US) ·