A PAIR of well-known actors have been spotted filming in Maldon High Street for an as yet unknown project.

John Simm and Philip Glenister, each of whom have impressive credits in film and television, were seen by their fans in action near the Moot Hall.

John is perhaps best known for playing villain The Master on Doctor Who and the eponymous DS Roy Grace on ITV crime drama Grace.

Meanwhile, Philip’s filmography includes DCI William Bell on State of Play and Reverend Anderson on Outcast.

In addition, the duo worked together on projects including cult classic BBC One science fiction period drama Life on Mars.

In that show, John played the lead role of DI Sam Tyler, a policeman from 2006 who finds himself in 1973 while Philip played his superior officer, DCI Gene Hunt.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Co-stars - John and Philip famously worked together in Life on MarsCo-stars - John and Philip famously worked together in Life on Mars (Image: Sharon Frost)

They also co-starred in psychological thriller Mad Dogs for Sky1.

Sharon Frost, who saw John and Philip while they were filming, said: “I just love how Maldon is used so much for filming. 

“I loved seeing the Essex Serpent being filmed, and to see these two guys today took me back to the Life On Mars series, a great programme. Let’s hope it was for that.”

This is not the first time Maldon has been used as a filming location.

Another pair of famous faces, Essex singer Olly Murs and comedy personality Leigh Francis were seen shooting outside Maldon Home Bargains in May 2023.

They had visited Blackwater Retail Park while filming for comedy series Shopping with Keith Lemon.

Councillor Michael Pearlman, from the North Ward, said: "I could see why it’s an attractive venue for filming.

"A couple of years ago, there was a period drama on the Quay with all the props.

"You’ve got the churches and The Blue Boar steeped in history.

"In the case of some other venues with lots of props, you’ve got it all in situ.

"Maldon has been voted one of the best places to live, certainly in the top 10.

"The Mud Race, RideLondon and the Maldon Christmas Market that attracts people and all the events happening in the Prom.

"You get so many tourists come each year. There’s a lot going on in Maldon.”

Moot Hall declined to comment.

It is not yet known what John Simm and Philip Glenister were filming or when it could air.