Did you know Eric couldn't swim - and you tried to get him into the water!
Eric did not have a worry as he knew the water would not be over his head. I remember my stand- in would not go into the water because it was too cold for her; so I had to be in there for hours. I was fine though. The crew fed me brandy to keep me warm. They were a nice bunch of guys and I really loved the hairdresser and make-up man. We all three became close. But I grew very fond of the hairdresser. I thought her skills were excellent. She taught me a few tricks of the trade.

What time of year was it? were there many tourists around?
When we began shooting at the beginning of October or end of September, the weather was nice but by the end of filming it was cold and everyone but the natives had gone home.
I shall always remember the kindness shown by the south of France natives towards me and my child Tracey.

Can you scuba dive, you seemed at home in the water?
There was a sand bar on the deserted beach so the water was never over my head.
The water scene was cut so I only had to emerge from the water.

Which is the most memorable scene for you?
I think the balcony scene is my favourite. The boys had a good time with that one. Also in the dining room with Ernie trying to eat frog legs and snails without throwing up. That scene did not require acting. They cut it to bits but it was very funny when it was shot. Oh and the scene with Eric pouring the coffee and then mixing the coffee and milk in his mouth. I saw the movie recently after all these years and really laughed out loud. He was excellent when the material allowed him to be.

Did they give you any help or advice on how to play a scene for the best comic effect?
They did not give me any advice as to how to make a scene funny. I wish they had. They were concerned about stepping on the director’s toes I think. They did ask me about 'matching' from scene to scene and from time to time we spoke about it. I would have loved it if they had taken me aside and given me some pointers.

Did you socialise with them at any time during the film?
I can't remember socializing with the boys. Their wives were in the South of France and I remember liking them both but my then husband knew Tony Curtis and we hung out with Tony his wife and daughter. I had my daughter with me as well.

Did you visit the casino?
I was too tired at the end of the day to gamble and on the week-ends we went for long drives in the country and ate at wonderful inns.

If you could sum up Eric and Ern - what would you say?
I liked the boys very much. Eric was thoughtful and considerate. Ernie was always smiling. They did not have a mean bone in their bodies. I was saddened to hear when they passed. Too soon for both. I will never forget them or the lunches at pinewood with the stilton cheese on the table.

We would like to thank Suzanne for giving us this interview, and wish her the very best for the future.
You can visit her website at: http://www.suzannelloyd.com

See photographs taken by Eric during the filming.

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