A TV drama focusing on a WI group in rural Cheshire during the Second World War will begin filming in Bunbury next month.

ITV has given the green light to Jambusters, a six-part drama series that focuses on a group of inspirational women in a rural Cheshire community who have been separated from their husbands, fathers, sons and brothers by the war, and must bond together to help maintain the nation’s fabric in its darkest hour.

With a screenplay by Simon Block, who penned shows including Lewis and Casualty, the drama is inspired by Julie Summers’ book of the same name, and is set to air on screens sometime in 2015 with casting yet to be announced.

Bunbury residents were informed of the news by leaflets posted through their doors explaining how their village would be affected by the filming, and also giving them the opportunity to feature in the show as extras.

Win Bond, of Bunbury Lane, who is known in the village for her charity bus driving, said it was ‘very exciting’ news for Bunbury.

She told The Chronicle: “They’re doing all sorts apparently, transforming the chippy into a garage, turning the Nag’s Head into something old fashioned - it’s all very exciting.

“And they’ve offered residents chance to be an extra on it; but you have to supply a headshot of yourself that must show a natural hair colour, no modern hairstyles, tattoos or fake tan. I’ve sent mine off but I don’t know if I’ll get the time to do all the filming with all my charity work!”

And Win says it’s not the first time a TV crew has descended on the small village.

She added: “I remember a pilot called Up the River was filmed on the canals in Bunbury back in the 1980s and I remember getting a signed script from the cast.

“It’s nice to be part of it again. I’m sure it will cause some disruption, and the leaflets outlined the disturbances that it will cause , but it’s still very exciting for Bunbury.”

Steve November, ITV’s director of drama, said: “We’re really delighted to have commissioned Jambusters. Great writing from Simon has given Julie Summers’ wonderful book a fictional life.

“The women are real and engaging and have fantastic spirit and attitude. With World War II on the horizon, multiple strands of plot interweave to create a period drama full of jeopardy and intrigue, but also great humanity and modernity.”

ITV are expected to make a casting announcement next week.