Last Sunday I found myself at the BBC Elstree Centre for the epitome of a trip down Memory Lane. I was invited to take part in a special 40th anniversary edition of The Antiques Roadshow.

The show was filmed on the Albert Square exterior set and it was one of the hottest days so far this year. It is a long way for my old legs to walk from the studio entrance to the set so they kindly provided a golf cart type of vehicle. That reminded me of a similar private visit to Universal Studios when I was transported around in a similar vehicle, but that is a story for another day.

I was interviewed about the item they asked me to bring along, very oddly it took place on the same spot outside the Queen Vic where I stood back in 1985. On that occasion I was the guest of the man who designed the EastEnders set and in my wildest dreams I would not have imagined the set and myself would still be standing 32 years later. I would like to say we both look unchanged but alas the passage of time does take its toll. For the set it means its days are numbered as it is going to be demolished and rebuilt at the front of the site . This will allow for it to be enlarged to assist with future storylines.

Personally I think it is great that the BBC is investing in the Studio, which was first built in 1914, ensuring a long term future for the 17-acre facility.It was only a few years ago they were contemplating moving the production elsewhere and selling the site with 650 homes planned. The last thing Borehamwood needs is more housing, with already a couple of thousand being built. I think it is an attractive Studio with nice gardens and some surviving 1930s buildings. As you may know the large office block doubles as a hospital for Holby City and one of the sound stages is used by a variety of productions, including some by other television companies.

Being filmed for the Antiques Roadshow was very easy. The make up girl gave me a quick touch up and then it was onto the set for the chat. I think they had five cameras shooting to give them a choice of angles during the editing. Then there were a couple of close up shots of the items and an audience reaction shot.

Sadly I was unable to watch any of the other interviewees but I heard they had some very interesting showbiz items including one from local film veteran Ron Punter. However, it would be unfair to reveal anything so far in advance of the transmission date and spoil the surprise.

I must also this week offer my sincere congratulations to veteran actresses June Whitfield and Olivia de Havilland on being created Dames. I have enjoyed meeting both ladies in the past but I just wonder why they leave such honours so late into a person's life.

Finally a personal note to one of the security guards at the BBC, who said he looked forward to reading my column this week. As Mr Grace used to say 'you have all done a wonderful job' .