"Back off you Bankers!!!"

The recession that hit Ireland in late 2008 undoubtly affected a lot of businesses.  Although it has recently been announced earlier this year the country's recession is officially over, many banks and building societies are certainly still not in the most stable position.  So it was brought to my attention by my sister, Susan that the Scottish company, Halifax will be closing all their branches in the Republic of Ireland this May....

Why would I bring this up?  Oh no, it's not that I'm a customer or been affected by it at all....  Only for that I was involved with the opening launch of Halifax to the Republic of Ireland with a string of commercials I did back in 2007....  Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gg6HdAHFDe8

( NOTE:Apologies for the quality, it was the only video I could find up online)

The commercial was filmed in Slough, England (where hit UK comedy series The Office starring Ricky Gervais was filmed) doubling as Ireland - funny enough.  Despite the freezing cold and being away from home and the family the week leading up to Christmas, it was possibly one of the most fun shoot I had experienced at the time! 

As well as the launch commercial, two other adverts were filmed to promote what Halifax had to offer.  I'm not featured all that much in either, but the one you see here below you can witness me in the background getting my ass whooped by the well respected stunt performer/co-ordinator, Jim Dowdall ( RocknRolla, The Descent, Enemy At The Gate, The Spy Who Loved Me). Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8LESw-NwJuM

So here's just sharing the few commercials with you as a farewell to Halifax Ireland (and to no more buyout for re-runs.... ). 

Peace and Best Wishes,

Alan