A COMEDY film starring a St Helens actor is set to be released next week.

'Gridiron UK', which will feature actor Phil Gwilliam, is based on the true story of the Crewe Railroaders, who played American football in the 1980s.

It tells the story of dreamer Derek Simmons, who, in a country dominated by soccer, rugby and cricket, risks everything to form an American football team in Crewe.

Phil, 38, who has also been involved as an associate producer in seeing the four-year project through to fruition, plays the role of quarterback 'Sinny'.

Phil said: "I first heard of the project in 2007 when, as a rugby league fan, I was immediately struck by the American football angle. And its similarities to Up 'N' Under and The Full Monty, as well as the '80s angle, also appealed, so I was desperate to be involved."

The project ticked all the right boxes for Phil, who, before becoming an actor, played rugby league for St Helens, Blackbrook, Lancashire and Warrington. His dad Alan and his uncle Ken also played professionally for St Helens and Warrington rugby league clubs.

Phil's sporting career was brought to an abrupt halt when he was just 19 and suffered serious leg injuries.

Gridiron UK is released on demand through Amazon on October 3.