Atherstone takes the spotlight as hometown talent Josh Pugh films his new Channel 4 comedy Stepping Up. North Warwickshire Borough Council proudly supports the production across local sites.
North Warwickshire Borough Council is delighted to welcome local comedian and actor Josh Pugh and the production team as they film scenes for the brand-new six-part Channel 4 series, Stepping Up, at the Council Offices. The Council has also supported the production crew in permitting them to park at the Atherstone Leisure Complex, the Council Offices and Sheepy Road car parks.
Stepping Up is a comedy series that follows the chaotic life of an over-enthusiastic stepdad, Josh, as he navigates the ups and downs of his new family. The show promises plenty of laughs as it captures the everyday challenges and unexpected moments of family life.
Josh Pugh, an English stand-up comedian, England Para-footballer, and actor, was born in Nuneaton in 1989 and grew up in Atherstone. In 2024, he launched the Atherstone Ball Game, personally throwing the ball to mark the start of the 824th game, highlighting his strong connection to the local community.
In addition to the Council Offices, Josh and the RoughCut team have been filming in other locations across Atherstone, including other local businesses, showcasing the town as an integral part of the series. The show will be aired on Channel 4 in Spring 2026.
Watch a snippet of the series
Josh Pugh said:
“I want to say a huge thank you to North Warwickshire Borough Council for all of their help in facilitating some of the locations for Stepping Up. It's so rare that things are filmed outside of London, and this wouldn't be possible without their support and enthusiasm. I can't wait for people to see what we're doing.”
Leader of the Council, Councillor David Wright, said:
“We are truly delighted that the Council Offices have been chosen to be featured in Josh Pugh’s exciting new series. The fact that Josh grew up in Atherstone makes the town’s inclusion even more meaningful and special to our community. It is wonderful to see local landmarks celebrated in this way, and we are eagerly looking forward to seeing the series when it airs.”