A famous actress from the sitcom Gavin and Stacey has been spotted in Brecon.

First Optic Brecon spotted Ruth Jones outside their shop with Welsh actor Steve Speirs. The pair were in the area filming their new show commissioned by BBC Wales and BBC Comedy.

Kiran, who works at First Optic, said her son noticed someone else taking photos with Ruth, but didn’t know who she was. “He didn’t really know who they were. He saw someone else taking pictures with them and asked if he could take a selfie. They were both laughing away. He didn’t realise Steve Speirs was famous, too, which is why you can see him laughing in the background.

“They were lovely. She asked him where he went to college and they had a chat about that, and then off she went. They were right outside the shop and it felt like too good an opportunity to miss.”

Kiran said it was exciting to see them in the town. “In Brecon, nothing happens, so it was exciting.”

The new comedy, co-starring Ruth Jones and Steve Speirs will look at the challenges and rewards of relationships in middle age. Currently untitled, the show is described as being a tender comedy, exploring a friendship between two people who meet at a knee trauma clinic. Ruth’s character is going through a divorce, while Steve’s character is a retired teacher.

At the time of the announcement, Ruth said: “I’m so grateful to the BBC for commissioning our new series. Steve and I are old friends and working with him is always a thrill. Can’t wait.”

Steve Speirs said: “Thanks to the team at the BBC for backing our new show. I’ve worked with Ruth for over 30 years and am really looking forward to doing it again.”

There will be six, thirty minute episodes. A release date is yet to be announced.