KENDAL is the unlikely setting for a new crime thriller set to be filmed in the New Year.

South Lakeland is relatively crime-free but writer and director Rick McLeod, who lives in Old Hutton, is keen to set a crime movie in the area.

Former Eastenders actor Leslie Grantham – famous for his role as bad boy ‘Dirty Den’ – will cameo in the darkly comic, independent gangster film Prelude.

Mr Grantham, who starred in the popular TV soap for more than 15 years, will play a cameo role.

“I’m really excited about it,” said Mr McLeod. I sent Leslie the script and he just loved it. If you don’t ask, you never get. “Although it’s a cameo role, he is coming all the way up from London just to do this film.

“Working with Leslie is a step up for me and everyone else that gets involved with the production.”

Mr McLeod will produce the short film through his company Celtic Storm Films, along with a team of Cumbrian film makers.

“I am adamant that I film it in Cumbria,” he said.

“It’s very important for me to work with local people. I always work with a Cumbrian crew.

“I’m even getting some kids from Kendal College to come along. I like to give people a chance to go out in the field.”

Prelude tells the story of Harley – a thief trying to make his mark as a notorious criminal – who is enrolled by gangland boss Dobson, played by Mr Grantham.

“It’s a cross between Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and The Bourne Identity,” said Mr McLeod.

The short will act as a prelude to Dead Trust – a script based in Barrow that Mr McLeod hopes to develop into a full-length feature by the end of the year following interest from US film competition MovieHatch.

“We have gone from strength to strength this year,” he said. “I’m hoping to take Prelude to several international film festivals.”

The director is currently seeking a local van driver to appear in the film and needs a warehouse to shoot several key scenes.

To get involved call: 07954-084054, or email: celticstorm films@live.com or visit www.celticstormfilms.co.uk