When filming began on the very first episode of Monarch of the Glen back in 1999, no-one could have predicted it would run for seven series and become such an international success. But even in the early days Susan Hampshire had an inkling they were making something special.

"During that first day we were filming a christening scene in the loch and it was a lovely atmosphere," recalls Susan. "The sun was shining, there were a few gentle drops of rain and then I saw this huge rainbow appear over us and it seemed to land exactly where we were paddling.

"I'm sure we weren't exactly at the end of the rainbow, because you never do get to the end of the rainbow, do you? But it seemed so close that I thought - wow, this is a really good omen."

After playing the merry widow for a couple of years, Molly's finally beginning to realise she's lonely despite the love of the family and friends that surround her.

As always Hector is constantly in Molly's thoughts - in fact, she's reluctant to take the next step in her life without his approval and guidance.

Monarch may be coming to an end, but Susan admits she will be surrounded by reminders of her time in The Highlands in her country home in the West Country.

"My house is full of things I've bought in Scotland, all my kitchen furniture is from there, there are pictures and lots of other bits and bobs. So while I may be hundreds of miles from the set, there will always be a little bit of Glenbogle with me day to day."


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