The nation will wave farewell to Big Brother on Friday, after an eighth series of romance, hilarity and confrontation, but, according to some, Borehamwood will miss the 24-hour antics most of all.

Elstree Film Studios hold a unique place in UK film history, but in recent years it has been Big Brother that has put its appeal firmly back in the national mindset.

Fans will now be wondering what to do with their evenings as Big Brother 8 comes to a climax this Friday when the winner will be announced live.

Elstree resident and devoted Big Brother fan Paul Wilder said: "I've had a brilliant three months and I won't know what to do after Friday.

"I think I may have to go into Big Brother rehab."

Mr Wilder has made 14 appearances on the debate show, Big Brother's Big Mouth, and was invited to attend a test show for Peaches Geldof.

Mr Wilder said: "I think the producers have done a wonderful job with this series, especially with the controversy surrounding Celebrity Big Brother.

"It's fantastic that I live locally because it means I can go to Big Brother whenever I like.

"I was really pleased when Big Brother invited me to a pilot show they did for Peaches Geldof, so that she could have a trial run before her actual show.

"I've been back every week."

Marcus Bentley, the iconic Geordie voice that narrates each show, admits he will miss Borehamwood when he leaves at the end of Friday's show.

Mr Bentley said: "I'm sure that, by us being here, a lot of trade has been brought into Borehamwood, but I think fans also appreciate the history of the area.

"The film studios have such a wonderful past and I think it's great to be able to work in a place that has made films like Star Wars.

"I'm very proud to have been part of this by working here."

Mr Bentley has been with the programme since the beginning of Big Brother, in 2000, and says that preparations have already begun for the next series.

He said: "The 600 or so staff who work here will immediately start work on the next series after this one finishes.

"At the end of the show on Friday, there is going to be a trailer advertising the new auditions, so we'll be back again next year."

Mr Wilder added: "I think the twins will win on Friday as they have become more powerful since becoming one item, and Brian will probably come a close second.

"Big Brother started as a social experiment and has turned into both that and a wonderful form of entertainment.

"It's a programme that is easy to slate but I'm sure there are a lot of closet fans out there, throughout the country."