A family in Surrey have created a star-studded film…helping shine a light on eating disorders and mental ill health.
Author and counsellor Lynn Crilly is producing A Day With An Eating Disorder in a bid to raise awareness around the issue.
The film features Lynn’s daughter, the poet and actress Samantha Crilly, who has battled an eating disorder and OCD in the past.
Samantha’s twin-sister Charlotte, her dad Kevin and Lynn’s two grandchildren also appear in the production which was filmed last month in Surrey.
Lynn, who trained as a counsellor to support Samantha, has managed to pull together a huge number of famous faces to support and take part in the film.
They include the legendary actor Sid Owen, who played Ricky Butcher in Eatenders. Sid, 52, who also lives in Surrey, has a small role in the film.
Sid is among a number of celebs who have agreed to appear in the new film for free.
Also taking part is the actress and reality TV star Jessica Impiazzi; Missing actor Paul Cooper, the dad of This Is England star Daisy-May; comedy legend Bobby Davro, and the former Hollyoaks star Mikayla Dodd.
Surrey-based radio legends Neil Long and Nicky Patrick – who present on Radio Jackie – also feature.
A Day With An Eating Disorder is being produced by filmmaker Lynn Crilly, an author and counsellor who specialises in supporting those living with conditions including anorexia and bulimia.
Lynn, who has appeared on national TV to promote the film, said: “I’m so grateful to everyone who has helped me on this very important project. We all came together last month to record the film in Surrey, and there was a wonderful atmosphere among all of those taking part.
“Friendships were formed which I think will now last a lifetime. This film will help shine a light on a very important issue. Although we’ve made progress in recent years to address stigma, far too many people are still suffering in silence and not getting the support and help they vitally need.”
Sid said: “Mental health and eating disorders affect lots and lots of people. “I know someone who has gone through an eating disorder and it’s really tough. So it’s great to be able to take part in a project which looks to break down stigma and help people.”
Neil Long: said: “Mental health is one of the greatest challenges of our time, but it is encouraging to see more and more of this important conversation happening. I believe good mental health is ultimately available to all of us, and being part of this project is a privilege, And of course I love a bit of acting.”
Nicky Patrick said: “The fact that Samantha has experience and worked through an eating disorder and challenges OCD on a daily basis makes her an incredible ambassador and role model on how not to let mental health issues prevent you from achieving your goals while also providing support in a very sensitive and entertaining way’.
The film will be released next year. For more information visit www.lynncrilly.com