It is always a closely-guarded secret – but the presence of building trucks, trade vans, skips and scaffolding was a huge clue as to which TV show was filming in an idyllic rural location this week.

The team from the hit BBC series DIY SOS: The Big Build were cracking on with their latest project in Hartley Bottom Road, Longfield.

Work began at the end-terrace cottage in earnest on Tuesday with the help of up to 80 willing tradesmen.

Scores of vehicles were parked up outside the row of six 105-year-old properties, as well as on grass verges nearby.

People living in the village, motorists and commuters on trains could not miss catching a glimpse of the project, which is taking place over nine days and will be revealed to the deserving family next week.

Appeals for every building skill from chippies to concrete screeders, plasterers to plumbers, went out via Facebook and Twitter ahead of filming, with the added incentive of “superb catering, lots of fun and the chance to turn a family’s life around”.

The response was described as incredible and all the skills and materials had been supplied ahead of work starting.

Those taking part included Gravesend-based Wynne Electrical. As well as being responsible for re-wiring the house and other necessary electrical work, boss Mark Wynne and his team of three also connected supply to the office cabins and, more importantly, the canteen.

Mark, 30, said: “We’ve only been involved for about two to three weeks. One of my suppliers was asked to supply gear and was asked if he knew any electricians and he gave my details.”

The company is usually responsible for new housing developments and this is the first community-based project the firm has been involved in.

Speaking on Tuesday outside the cottage, Mark, 30, said: “It’s only the first day but we are already having a great laugh. I’m working with Billy (Byrne) and he has told me I’m in charge!”

Billy and all the other famous faces of the series, including presenter Nick Knowles, were also on site mucking in.

Poking his head out of a loft hatch, Billy confirmed what Mark had said. “He is. Don’t leave it to me,” he joked.

The project itself had been weeks in the pipeline and all the neighbours were consulted.

The family benefiting from the big build moved out ahead of tradesmen arriving on site.

Work actually began nearly a month ago with a team of up to eight workers from Northfleet-based Nick Brown Ltd preparing the groundworks, foundations and drains.

Boss Nick Brown, 45, was on site with his wife, Kay, 50, as the build itself got under way.

He said of his involvement: “We live in Meopham and just thought we would do something to help. We do work locally and it’s good to put a bit back.”

Nick Knowles was full of praise for everyone involved. Asked how the project was taking shape he said: “It’s amazing. The neighbours are fantastic and we are in a beautiful rural location.

“All these builds are community builds. People say DIY SOS is brilliant but we don’t do all this, the local community do.”

A broadcast date is yet to be decided.