Cue the setbuilders, who proceeded to construct a three-dimensional shortbread tin on an MGM studio backlot.

There was a strong rumour that the same would happen with next summer’s blockbuster, director Ron Howard’s re-telling of The Da Vinci Code. Dan Brown’s novel (17 million sold and counting) has its denouement in Rosslyn Chapel in Midlothian, where the main characters end up in a search for the secrets of the Holy Grail.

However, in a set of negotiations as convoluted as the plot of the novel itself, the trustees of the 15th-century chapel agreed a deal with the studio which should bring around £100,000 to the coffers. This will be a welcome addition to the restoration funds and more than enough to cover the period at the end of September when the chapel will be closed to visitors and such luminaries as Tom Hanks, Audrey Tatou (Amelie), Sir Ian McKellen and Alfred Molina will take up residence. Along with the long lenses of the paparazzi of course.

It will also bring the spectacular surroundings of Rosslyn to a worldwide cinema audience. The success of the novel has already brought enthusiasts to Midlothian but once on the big screen, the visitor numbers to the area will rocket.

Films made in Scotland have always been a boon to tourism. Even if we don’t have the rolling mist and gingerbread houses of Brigadoon, we have the backdrops that have made great films even more memorable.

The Scottish Screen Locations website allows film-makers from around the world to log in and see exactly what we have to offer their production. Local film offices also work with international production teams to find exactly the right location. More locations are coming on

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