The critics may have spoken – and not always in the kindest terms – but for the most ardent of Dad's Army fans, the new film version of the classic comedy does not disappoint.

Eastern Daily Press: Members of the production team for Dad's Army visited Thetford before filming started for the feature film. Left to right back: Simon Bowles, production designer, and Phil Robertson, co producer. Left to right front seated: Damian Jones, producer, Cllr Corinne Fulford, and Oliver Parker, director.Members of the production team for Dad's Army visited Thetford before filming started for the feature film. Left to right back: Simon Bowles, production designer, and Phil Robertson, co producer. Left to right front seated: Damian Jones, producer, Cllr Corinne Fulford, and Oliver Parker, director. (Image: Archant)

Among those attending the première in central London on Tuesday night were Stuart Wright, chairman of Thetford's Dad's Army Museum, and Corinne Fulford, former Thetford town councillor, as well as members of the Dad's Army Appreciation Society, which has links with Bressingham Steam and Gardens, near Diss.

Both worked as advisers on the film in its early stages, when producers travelled to Thetford – where the original series was largely set.

And both said they were pleased with the final results.

Ms Fulford said: 'The film was very warmly received by everyone.'

Some reviewers have praised the film, others have been less than glowing. But Ms Fulford said: 'I think some critics are mistaking what it is about. Dad's Army was always very gentle comedy, subtle but very physical.

'For me it was very cleverly done and brought right up to date by the inclusion of women.'

She praised Michael Gambon's performance as Godfrey as 'exquisite' and said Toby Jones had done a 'beautiful job' portraying Captain Mainwaring – the 'hardest role'.

'Most people I know cannot wait to see it and I would urge them to go,' she said.

Mr Wright said: 'We went for a drink after with some members of the Dad's Army Appreciation Society and discussed the film, and we felt that the crew had delivered.

'Judging by the reaction of the people in the theatre it was very well received, and people were laughing during it so the jokes and the slapstick humour were obviously working.

'I think it is good family viewing. There are some subtle bits and pieces which make reference to the TV series, but you don't have to know the characters or the history of it. I think you have to view it as another stage of the Dad's Army story.'

Were you involved in the filming of the original series? Email bethanywhymark@archant.co.uk