Oscar winner opens new Rasen showroom

The star of stage and screen joked with the crowd as he cut the ribbon - the first time he had been asked to perform such a task.

“It is a great honour to be here for the next chapter in the Peter Rhodes story,” he said.

“In 1969, Miss Yorkshire Television cut the ribbon for the new shop - you could have got her back really, but I am pleased to be here in her place.”

Once inside the new showroom, Mr Broadbent spent time talking to customers and guests, some who remembered him from his childhood days, growing up in the nearby Holton cum Beckering area.

He also praised the Rhodes family for their six successful decades in business.

“I am really impressed by what they have achieved and to have kept it going over the years,” he said.

“To have continued in the current climate of internet shopping is very impressive and I am more than happy to do my bit to encourage people to support our independent shops.

“Local high streets need all the help they can get.”

Market Rasen Mayor, Coun John Matthews echoed Mr Broadbent’s comment.

“I congratulate them on this new venture and wholeheartedly wish the business another 60 years success.”

Speaking about his successful career, Mr Broadbent gave an insight into how he chooses which roles to take on.

“I am very happy to do cameos in some (films) and then take on a lead in another,” he said.

“I like to mix it up a bit. As long as it is something that entertains me - I always think ‘is it something I would enjoy going to see.’ To think your work is something that will bring in an audience is great motivation.”

He can be seen taking the lead role in The Sense of an Ending, released next month, as well as Paddington 2 and the Series 7 of Game of Thrones.