Filming for the new Indiana Jones movie may now be over in Borders.
But the Hollywood juggernaut has left a lasting impression on the region.
The famous Harrison Ford was spotted mingling with the people of Melrose yesterday, before shooting scenes on the nearby Leaderfoot Viaduct.
And the American actor picked up some traditional Scottish treats during his visit.
Martin Baird, who runs a butcher shop of the same name on Main Street, said Radio borders: “He just walked in and had some tartan pies. He was a very nice gentleman, and a nice guy in every way.
âHe just asked what we were doing, what was our most popular pie, so we said, ‘Try a Scottish pie’ – and he was more than happy.
“He was very modest and a perfectly decent guy, and I don’t think he likes a lot of fuss to be honest.”
The 78-year-old – who was pictured wearing his signature leather jacket and brown fedora hat on set – also passed Abbey Fine Wines in the town’s market square.
Owner Joanne Gribbin didn’t specify her shopping list, but said, “He appreciates a good whiskey – let’s say that – and he obviously likes his wine.”
The big screen star was the talk of the town as walkers who normally enjoy using the trail between Newstead and Leaderfoot were sent off a four mile detour during filming.
But not everyone immediately recognized Ford, who wore a mask inside to comply with coronavirus rules.
âI’ve always followed all of his movies, so once you realize it’s good,â Joanne said, recalling the moment he walked into his store.
“We had people sitting outside who were stopped in their march and insisted on crossing the field that they weren’t supposed to, because they were going to have to make that four mile detour to complete their long walk that they had. already done, so the whole city was buzzing yesterday, that was really good.
“Everything (like that) is good right now, especially after everything we’ve been through with the pandemic.”
Borders cinema boss Andrew Poole has said he can’t wait for Indiana Jones’ new film to be released next summer.
He was among the crowds lining the opposite bank of the River Tweed last night to watch Hollywood star Harrison Ford’s film scenes for the blockbuster in front of the Leaderdale Viaduct.
And he hopes that bringing the local landscape to the big screen could lead to more people visiting the area.
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âIt’s just great for the Borders, it’s great for Borders tourism, it’s great for us as a theater operator in Galashiels,â he said.
âWhen we learned that Avengers: Endgame had been filmed in St Abbs, we saw an increase in admissions and immediately went to visit, so there is no reason why this area could not benefit from that as well.
“And now let’s hope that with Indiana Jones, that will lead to some more major film productions being shot here in the Borders.”
The still-untitled film, produced by award-winning director Steven Spielberg, is slated for release in July 2022.