A NEW Robin Hood film is set to star Southend born actor James Groom in one of the leading roles.

The 34-year-old, who was born in the town, will play Guy of Gisborne alongside acting legends including Brian Blessed.

Also included in Robin Hood: The Rebellion, is Kristian Nairn, best known for playing Hodor in Game of Thrones, Ben Freeman, from Emmerdale, and James Wheatley, from Vikings.

James moved to London to pursue his acting career.

Prior to his big break, he worked in film and television production, before realising he was on “the wrong side of the camera”.

Despite being “afraid of being an unemployed actor” he decided to put into practice what he first learned at TheatreTrain in Essex. He has performed in the West End, including recently in Killer Joe, and in Amazon production Outlander.

Partner Sarah Cullun is also an actor.

James said: “We’re a team.”

Speaking about the role he said: “It’s great, I really love it.

“I’m playing a baddie and they’re always the best characters to play.

“When I read the script, I loved it and our director is great.

“I’ve actually worked with him before.

“We got to film all around Wales, it’s so beautiful there and I got the chance to work with really talented people.

“Guy of Gisborne is Sheriff of Nottingham’s cousin in the film and he’s quite a grim character.

“He attempts to be the best bad guy, but actually gets beat up by his cousin and the good guys too. Ultimately, he fails, but he’s still rather nasty. It was a lot of fun.”

His plans for the future are to continue acting. James said: “I would like to be in a position where I can pick and choose a bit more and have more of a say in the roles I play. But I really do love my job, it’s been a fantastic nine years. I hope my career in the future continues to be challenging and creative”.

Robin Hood: The Rebellion will be released on Digital HD and DVD from November 5.