A group of mayors got a glimpse of life on a film set when they were given an exclusive tour of Elstree Studios.

Hertsmere Mayor Pat Strack invited officials from Broxbourne, Harrow, Dacorum, Hertfordshire, Hatfield and East Herts to see the iconic studios because they are an important part of the area's history.

Cinema historian Bob Redman gave the group a talk on the history of film in Borehamwood from 1914 to 2013.

After the talk, they were given the chance to see a sneak peek of the set of Sky’s new fantasy family comedy Yonderland, which is due to be aired this year, but has already been commissioned for a second season.

They were also shown the Big Brothers Bit on the Side set, as well as the BBC stages where Strictly Come Dancing will be filmed later this year.

Mayor Strack said: “It was a real eye-opener because being on a film set is not as glamorous as some might think - but it was still amazing to see.

“It is essential we support our studios and show other boroughs exactly what we do here. They put Borehamwood on the map and they are an important part of our history.

“It was a wonderful experience and I thought the whole day was very interesting. Everyone told me they had a great time.”

The Elstree Way studios bring in around £1.3m to the borough each year.

Last year, Hertsmere Borough Council, which owns the studios, accepted a £2million loan towards a £4.5m expansion project to build new film and television production facilities.

The leading film and TV studios attract top feature films, such as Oscar winner The King’s Speech.