HUNDREDS of comedy fans descended on Barry as filming began on the Gavin & Stacey Christmas special began.

Eagle-eyed fans spotted Rob Brydon (uncle Bryn) and Larry Lamb (Mick Shipman) arriving at Cardiff Central railway station before they arrived in Trinity Street, Barry, - which is where Gwen West (Melanie Walters) and uncle Bryn live.

The award-winning comedy, first broadcast in May 2007, was thought to have concluded after three series and a Christmas special.

But earlier this year, co-writer James Corden, who played Smithy, revealed he and co-writer Ruth Jones (Nessa) had written a one-off script to tie off loose ends - two years ago.

Alison Steadman (Pam Shipman) also joined the cast onset with Mr Corden and Ms Jones overseeing the action.

Security controlled the crowds who had gathered in Barry Island, after 7pm, for a glimpse of the actors.

Mr Corden greeted the fans and posed for selfies.

Earlier in the day, the production team began the process of constructing the 14ft Christmas tree which will appear in the special to be broadcast on Christmas Day, December 25.

Marco Zeraschi, whose cafe features in the show, said: "I've been telling people it's the Christmas staff party early this year.

"Did they believe me?

"No.

"It's surreal to see Christmas in the middle of summer."

He added: "We're back on the Gavin & Stacey rollercoaster.

"It's good for Barry Island."

Mr Corden was also re-united with Lorenzo Zeraschi who he had cradled as a baby a decade ago.

And cast and crew took a break from filming to indulge in the gelato at Zio's Gelateria, in the nearby western shelter, Barry Island.

Zio's co-owner, Mariana Zeraschi said: "It was a pleasure to have the Gavin & Stacey cast and crew in last night - sampling Zio's homemade gelato.