Location,Location,L ocation

The exterior filming of what was supposed to be Croydon High Street were actually filmed in New Brighton on the Wirral. The scene where the open topped American car speeds up the road was filmed there complete with London bus and period cars. My partner and I were on our way home from the only remaining cinema in that area and stopped to watch them filming. In those days the area leading down to the river Mersey did have a very 1950's look about it especially in the dark with dimly lit shops.I remeber a fish and chip shop on one side of the road with some customers going in and and they weren't even extras! It was a scene that had not changed for over thirty years or more. I also remember all the period vehicles arrived by low loader and a sign for Croydon station attached to the back of what still is the Floral Pavillion theatre and other period signs because they filmed in daylight too.
I think the film is realistic in many respects leaving aside the tragic story.
The scene on the roof were Tom Bell as the policeman shouts "get me a *beep* gun!" would be more in line with how someone would react to a colleque being shot.
I think Tom Courtney as the father was brilliant, showing great reserve and dignity.
No wonder he is one of Britain's greatest and well repected actors