Film crews were at Rumsey’s Chocolaterie in Thame this week filming scenes for ITV’s Inspector Morse spin-off Lewis.
The Oxford-based detective drama was filming scenes for its seventh series in the High Street shop, named as Porters Tea House for the show.
The star turns from the show, Robert Lewis (Kevin Whately) and his assistant DS James Hathaway, played by Laurence Fox, were in town filming scenes on Wednesday afternoon.
Shop owner Mary Rumsey said ITV choosing to film at the store was a great opportunity not only for Rumsey’s, but also for the town.
“I think somebody must have seen the shop on their travels and thought it would be useful,” she said.
“The fact they chose to film at the shop is fantastic. It really is lovely.
“ITV approached us just over a month ago about using the store for filming, and of course we didn’t object.
“I think it’s a really nice compliment for the store – for someone to come in and something we have done is suitable for filming and has enough character and atmosphere to appear on national television.
“That’s the most special thing for me. It proves all our hard work of creating the store has all been worthwhile.
“The decor inside has proved quite popular. We based the store as much as we could on the theme of the film Chocolat, while ensuring it stays in keeping with the feeling of Thame.
“We’ve also put flooring in which is reminiscent of Victorian or French tea rooms – perhaps a reason it was chosen for the show.”
Rumsey’s Chocolaterie has been based in Thame’s Upper High Street for six years, having previously been a butchers and a meat delicatessen.
