Everyone I have met has been lovely. You get a storyline briefing before filming otherwise you wont know what character you are supposed to be. I've never met any of the Dingles (well i'v emet Aaron buyt he's a Livesey really). Its long hard work for very little reward but great fun as long as you are patient

Its filmed 6 weeks in advance on average.  i have worked as background on it and it has usually been about 6 weeks ahead.