A QUAYSIDE has undergone a transformation as it became the backdrop for the filming of a new TV show.

The Essex Serpent, a Victorian drama which is being a series for Apple TV+, has been shot on locations in Alresford and Maldon.

Film crews were spotted in The Hythe in Maldon taking the historic port back in time to the 19th century.

These pictures, which were taken by John Guiver for our Mid-Essex Camera Club, show the production team building the set and organising the wardrobe.

Gazette: The filming begins in Maldon. Picture: Donna FrostThe filming begins in Maldon. Picture: Donna Frost

The series is an adaptation of Sarah Perry’s 2016 novel and follows the newly widowed Cora who is being played by Golden Globe winner Claire Danes.

Gazette: Behind the scene on the set of the Essex Serpent in The Hythe, Maldon (John Guiver) Behind the scene on the set of the Essex Serpent in The Hythe, Maldon (John Guiver)

Having been released from an abusive marriage, Cora relocates from London to the small village of Aldwinter in Essex, intrigued by a superstition that a mythical creature known as the Essex Serpent has returned to the area.

Gazette: Behind the scene on the set of the Essex Serpent in The Hythe, Maldon (John Guiver) Behind the scene on the set of the Essex Serpent in The Hythe, Maldon (John Guiver)

The book depicts Cora as a keen amateur naturalist with no patience for religion or superstition, who is immediately enthralled and convinced that what the villagers think is a magical beast may be a previously undiscovered species.

The series will also include award-winning actor Tom Hiddleston, best known for playing Loki in various Marvel films, who will play the role of Will Ransome.

Gazette: Behind the scene on the set of the Essex Serpent in The Hythe, Maldon (John Guiver) Behind the scene on the set of the Essex Serpent in The Hythe, Maldon (John Guiver)

Maldon District Council confirmed filming was taking place through the week.

In a statement the council said: “We are delighted the production company has chosen the Maldon district as one of their locations for a new six part drama.

Gazette: Behind the scene on the set of the Essex Serpent in The Hythe, Maldon (John Guiver) Behind the scene on the set of the Essex Serpent in The Hythe, Maldon (John Guiver)

“We have an enviable reputation for being extremely film friendly and this production follows in the footsteps of many others who have filmed here.

Gazette: Behind the scene on the set of the Essex Serpent in The Hythe, Maldon (John Guiver) Behind the scene on the set of the Essex Serpent in The Hythe, Maldon (John Guiver)

“They will be operating in line with the Government’s guidelines which legally permits them to undertake Covid-secure film and television production.

Gazette: Behind the scene on the set of the Essex Serpent in The Hythe, Maldon (John Guiver) Behind the scene on the set of the Essex Serpent in The Hythe, Maldon (John Guiver)

“They have a sizeable base on Promenade Park, and they will minimise any disruption during their filming and ensure safety can be maintained at all times.

“We would remind everyone that while this is clearly exciting, social distancing must still be maintained at all times.”