GARDEN centre staff were delighted by a visit from a famous face this week.

ITV were spotted filming in Tiptree on Wednesday (October 6) for a pop-up game show.

The channel's In For a Penny presenter Stephen Mulhern hosted the popular show at Perrywood Garden Centre.

The centre invited residents to come down with a partner for the chance to potentially play a game and win some money.

And Perrywood bosses say the visit created "a real buzz" among staff and customers.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Perrywood's Brenda with Stephen MulhernPerrywood's Brenda with Stephen Mulhern

Retail director Simon Bourne said: "We were delighted to host Stephen and his production crew, the timing was perfect for filming, coinciding with the opening of our Christmas at the Theatre themed displays.

"In For a Penny certainly brought a day of excitement to Perrywood, there was a real buzz amongst the team.

"It was also great to see our customers getting involved with the games and enjoying themselves.”

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Perrywood's Alison with game show host Stephen MulhernPerrywood's Alison with game show host Stephen Mulhern

Stephen was also spotted filming in Chelmsford city centre on Monday in his famous gold suit for what appeared to be a Christmas-themed episode.

Filming for the fourth season began in August and is set to be aired next spring.

This Christmas the garden centre is offering a chance to win a £20 gift voucher.

All guests need to do is post a photo of themselves, or friends and family with their permission, riding on Perrywood's special festive "magic carpet".

It can be posted on social media with the hashtag "perrywoodchristmas" or email your photo to info@perrywood.co.uk.

The closing date for entries is Sunday, December 19. 

The winner will be drawn at random and notified in time for Christmas day on Tuesday, December 21.

For more information visit perrywood.co.uk/competition-terms.