March 2009

A QUIRKY independent movie is to be filmed in Crewe with the help of TV and movie icon David Soul.

The film, currently under the working title of Gridiron UK, is based on a true story about an American football team in Crewe in the mid 80s.

The Crewe Railroaders were actually based at the Cumberland Sports Ground from 1985 to 1990.

The film will be set in 1984 when the sport is experiencing a boom in the UK.

It follows the dreams and failures of Derek Simmons, whose failed get rich quick schemes have got him into debt and put a strain on his already fragile marriage.

His wife Kym has had enough and demands he gives up his crazy ideas and face his responsibilities.

Just when she thinks he has come to his senses Derek has another brainwave driven by his love of American Football.

He decides to form his own team in Crewe.

He encounters ridicule from every corner of his life but he is determined to succeed.

And on a cold November morning 11 ordinary blokes turn up to try out for the newly formed team and the Crewe Railroaders are born.

Producer Gary Delaney, of Brushy Creek Films, said: “This is not a film about American Football.

It is a film about a guy desperate to succeed at something and his vehicle to success is an American football team.

David Soul has officially attached his name to the film.

He has yet to decide if he wants to be the director or executive producer, but will let me know very soon."

This is a huge boost to this production and will help us attract further finance and interest from well known actors and actresses.

“When I first approached him over six months ago he did say it would take something pretty special to make him direct again so that in itself is an endorsement of our film.”

Gary said he has also been contacted by actor Stephen Marcus, who played Nick the Greek in the smash hit Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.

He said: “I had a meeting with him in London and he was very excited about the project and wants to help as much as he can to get it made."

“I have offered the role of Dr Death to Stephen and we are confident that we will have our first major signing in the next couple of weeks.”

The filmmakers are now gathering props, including cars and fashion items from the era, to ensure the films looks authentically set in 1984.

© Crewe and Natwich Guardian UK 2009