Watch ‘Downton’ star Hugh Bonneville volunteering as a Covid vaccine marshall

Hugh Bonneville has been surprising people getting their coronavirus vaccine!

Visitors to the local Covid-19 vaccination hub in the town of Midhurst have received an unexpected welcome from the Downton Abbey star.

Bonneville, who plays Lord Grantham in the hit period drama, is a regular volunteer marshal at the centre in West Sussex, England.

The Paddington star told BBC News: “For some people, it’s the first time they’ve been out of the house in a year. We’ve had people who’ve really been grateful for the outing, as much as anything, and this sense of a glimmer of hope, so it’s great to be part of this team effort.”

He added: “There’s the sense of hope and to be part of that is really lovely.”

One man visiting the centre didn’t realise he’d be welcomed by the Downton actor, saying: “No, too early in the morning for that!”

Meanwhile, an elderly woman revealed she’d taken a selfie with the star, although another visitor admitted: “Oh, I don’t like Downton. Shh!”

Nevertheless, well done, Hugh!

Watch the BBC’s video report:

It was recently announced that Hugh Bonneville will star in an upcoming adaptation of Terry Pratchett’s The Amazing Maurice.

The 57-year-old actor is expected to be back in the Downton movie sequel when it starts shooting this summer, ahead of its planned release in 2022.

Fans can also watch Bonneville play author Roald Dahl in upcoming period drama To Olivia.

Downton Abbey: The Complete Collection box set is available on DVD on Amazon.