Heeley Pool takes centre stage in David Walliams’ BBC drama

Heeley Pool was chosen as one of the locations for the filming of Billionaire Boy, an hour-long special which will features an all-star cast including Catherine Tate, John Thomson and Warwick Davies, as well as an appearance from David himself.

The show is the story of Len, who makes a billion pounds from inventing a new toilet roll, and his 12-year-old son Joe who has everything that money can buy, except a good friend.

Heeley Pool, which is managed by Sheffield International Venues - part of not-for-profit organisation Sheffield City Trust - was used for scenes featuring the child actor playing Joe, with the youngster being filmed around the pool area.

Richard Apps, general manager at Heeley Pool, said: “We were thrilled that Heeley Pool was chosen as one of the filming locations for Billionaire Boy and it as fantastic to welcome the cast and crew to the venue.

“This kind of exposure on national television showcases the great venues our city provides as well as offering excellent and diverse film and TV locations. Our range of venues, combined with SIV’s experience in accommodating large scale filming projects, means we are developing a positive reputation amongst TV production companies.”

Billionaire Boy was published in 2010, securing numerous accolades and quickly becoming a best-seller. John Thomson and youngster Elliot Sprakes have landed the lead roles as Len and Joe. David Walliams plays a dinner lady. It will be broadcast on BBC1 on New Year’s Day at 7pm.