HE can normally be found on prime time TV.

But yesterday Downton Abbey Star Paul Copley took time out from his showbiz schedule to visit Brockholes Primary School.

The star officially opened their new Jubilee Woodland – which was planted by the school’s Environment Club and paid for by the National Woodland Trust.

Headteacher Clare Thomas said: “We were thrilled that Mr Copley was able to declare our new woodland area open.

“His sister Gill Holmes, is a teaching assistant at the school and she invited him along.

“As he usually stars in adult dramas, we showed suitable clips to the children.

“Many of them recognised him from commercials and had seen him on TV before so they were very excited when they got to meet him face to face.

“Mr Copley has also planted a tree in the area.

“Although the environment club has worked hard on this project, they are unlikely to see it in their time as the trees will take time to grow.

“We are an eco-school and we put a large emphasis on the environment.

“There is plenty of woodland in the school area.

“We will also be holding a Jubilee Tea Party and our summer fair will also be Jubilee themed.”

Mr Copley, who also enjoyed a performance of Macbeth from Years Five and Six is currently filming in Manchester for the BBC’s new series Anthony and Cleopatra – which is a working title.

It is about love and second chances, set in the autumn years of two old school friends.

Alan, played by Derek Jacobi and Celia, played by Anne Reid, are both widowed and in their 70s.

They unexpectedly fall for each other when they meet again after nearly 50 years.

Their relationship is a celebratory tale of the uplifting power of love at any age but both have families – with baggage.

Mr Copley plays the role of one of Alan’s friends, who is “a typical Yorkshire man”.

The show will either be aired prior to the Olympics or shortly afterwards.

He said: “I will also be appearing in Downtown Abbey again, which I believe will be aired in the autumn time.

“I cannot reveal what I will be doing but I am looking forward to being part of such a successful show.”

The Denby Dale star appeared in the last series of the ITV hit show as William’s father, Mr Mason.

He will also appear on a BBC Radio 4 sitcom alongside Anne Reid and Justin Moorhouse, entitled Everyone Quite Likes Justin.