ONE of the first images from a new BBC primetime series currently being filmed in Chepstow has been released.

The scene from fantasy drama Atlantis, made for BBC Cymru Wales by Urban Myth Films, shows actors Jack Donelly as Jason, Robert Emms as Pythagoras and Mark Addy as Hercules in front of a mythical city.

The production began filming in part of the former Tesco coldstore building at Newhouse Farm Industrial Estate, Chepstow in April.

The empty warehouse was converted into a large studio with two green green stages where interior and exterior sequences are being filmed and then enhanced by CGI.

The Argus revealed in March that the 13-part series, which will be sold world-wide, takes viewers on a journey through the vast store of Greek myths and legends, a treasure trove of extraordinary tales re-imagined for a new generation.

The also cast includes Juliet Stevenson, Sarah Parish , Jemima Ropper and Aiysha Hart.

Filmed primarily in Wales and backed by the Welsh Government, which helped secure the new international BBC blockbuster series for Wales, it has already brought in substantial investment with up to 100 freelancers working on the project.

Economy Minister, Edwina Hart described it as another feather in the cap for the Welsh creative industries sector.

She said: “It sends out a strong signal that in Wales we have the talent, the skills and the resources to support the very best in TV and film production. It will help raise the profile of Wales as a location of choice for high-end drama production and the Welsh Government is pleased to have supported the first series.”

Bob Greenland, Monmouthshire councillor and cabinet member for enterprise said: “This is just the sort of development we have been aiming for in Monmouthshire. Through our business development arm, Monmouthshire Enterprise, and with the co-operation of the local planning authority, we worked with the Welsh Government to secure this exciting opportunity with new job prospects and associated spend in the county.”

Sara Hamill, head of production at Urban Myth Films added: “We are delighted to be back in Wales. We have been working with BBC Wales for the last five years so have first-hand experience of the available talent here.

The series is due to be screened on BBC One later this month.