MAGICAL scenes from a fantasy television series were filmed near Ross-on-Wye this week.

Scenes from the new BBC series of Merlin – which follows the story of the young wizard – were shot at the Amazing Hedge Puzzle in Symonds Yat West from Monday to Wednesday.

The 13-part series features a starstudded cast, including former Eastenders actress Michelle Ryan, Buffy the Vampire Slayer star Anthony Head and One Foot in the Grave’s Richard Wilson.

Jane Lewis, Herefordshire Council’s cultural services manager, said: “This is fantastic news for Herefordshire.

“It will not only generate income locally but put the county on the magic map when the series goes out on the BBC.”

Peter Hands, chairman of Visit Herefordshire Ltd, said: “Herefordshire is a magical place, whether Merlin really exists or not, and we’re delighted the producers have chosen this location for some of the scenes.”