Downton cast banned from taking modern objects to work
The cast of 'Downton Abbey' have been banned from taking modern items on set.
Producers of the hit ITV period drama have laid down a harsh ban after a plastic water bottle was spotted in the background of a publicity shot of stars Hugh Bonneville and Laura Carmichael, who play the roles of the Earl of Grantham and Lady Edith Crawley respectively.
A member of the cast told The Daily Telegraph newspaper: "Modern watches and jewellery are out and so even is designer underwear, as the danger is apparently too great if, say a chap bent over.
"They have relented in the case of prescription glasses and asthma guns, but that's about it."
Meanwhile, the cast have responded to the error by posing with plastic bottles for a tongue-in-cheek shoot to promote the work of international charity WaterAid.
Julian Fellowes - who created 'Downton Abbey' - claims he had no say in the ban that has been put in place, but respects the stars of the show for the way in which they've dealt with the embarrassment.
He said: "I liked the cast's response, though, didn't you?"
Fellowes added: "It was a silly mistake, of course, and I suppose someone will be blown up for it, but if the cast can turn it around and actually help to raise some money for such a terrific cause, then I'm glad it happened. Victory snatched from the jaws of defeat."
