Port Talbot back in spotlight with new Paul Potts film

IT has been lights, camera, action for TV star James Corden who is helping to put Port Talbot in the spotlight once again.

The Gavin and Stacey star has been shooting scenes in the town for a film based on singer Paul Potts's life called One Chance.

The film crew have set up their base at the recycling centre car park near Tesco's petrol station and have been busy transforming several businesses and homes for the movie.

It was early on Sunday morning when Corden filmed a scene on Forge Road in the town centre.

Lisa Smith, owner of The Flower Box, said she was delighted for her shop to be part of the movie.

"It was quite surreal," she said.

"It was exciting and the street was full of trucks.

"The crew changed our sign and put up a gate.

"In the scene James Corden runs from the alley to the gate which is locked, and he then runs into Family Value.

"There was a really nice atmosphere on the set."

As well as the crew using her shop, Ms Smith said she was also helping the producers in another way.

"I am also doing the wedding flowers for the wedding scene, which I believe is taking place at St Catherine's Church in Baglan," she said.

"They are also filming the wedding reception at the Twelve Knights in Margam."

Manager of La Memo, Mehmet Evson, which is a restaurant based next door, said the film was once again putting Port Talbot on the map.

"Port Talbot has a lot of talent," he said.

"Michael Sheen always comes in to the restaurant, and he did the Passion play in the town.

"My wife always watches Gavin and Stacey so she is a fan of James Corden."

Scenes yesterday were being shot on the seafront near Cafe Remos.

Owner Anthony Difrancesco said it was good that they were using the beach for filming some scenes.

"It is nice for any celebrity to visit," he said. "It is putting us on the map a little bit."

The movie, which is due out next year, is directed by David Frankel, who was behind The Devil Wears Prada.

Around 500 extras from the area will be taking part in the film which follows the Port Talbot singer's rise to stardom after he triumphed on Britain's Got Talent.

As well as Corden, the movie stars Julie Walters and The Office star Mackenzie Crook.

Ammanford actress and former Gorseinon College student Alexandra Roach, who starred in The Iron Lady, is playing Potts's wife, Julie Ann Cooper, in the film.

The flick also boasts an appearance by Simon Cowell.

On Saturday, Corden — who wears crooked teeth to look like Potts who lives in Baglan — announced on Twitter he was in Swansea for the night.

The comedian has also been snapped in Venice filming on a gondola.