In 1914 Percy Nash and John East (early British filmmakers) built Neptune Studios which are now known as The BBC Elstree Centre. One of the stages was over 70 feet long and described as the 1st 'dark' stage in Europe given it relied entirely on artificial lighting. In 1939 the studios were taken over by British National Films, but in 1948 they went totally ‘dark’ for about 5 years. However, in 1953 Douglas Fairbanks Jr. bought the site, renamed them the National Studios, but in 1958 ATV purchased the site and until 1984 many classic TV series were filmed here. In that year the BBC took possession and the studios were renamed The BBC Elstree Centre. The backlot used for the ‘Auf Wiedersehen Pet’ building site was then transformed into the exterior of Albert Square for EastEnders. In 1999 Holby City, a spin off from the BBC’s Casualty medical drama, began filming at the Centre. At this time general tours around the sets are not offered as it would compromise filming.