Hartlepool teen has part in new comedy film Grimsby

Nathan Jukes, 15, got to work alongside some of the UK’s top actors including Sacha Baron Cohen, Mark Strong, Johnny Vegas and Ricky Tomlinson.

It is Nathan’s first big acting job, after previously only appearing in school productions.

He said: “It was a really great experience. Sacha is a really funny guy. He was in character from the moment he came on set to the moment he left.”

Grimsby is the latest film starring the controversial comedian, who is the man behind characters including Ali G and Borat.

He plays slobbish football hooligan Nobby, who gets drawn into the world of espionage by his long-lost brother, played by Mark Strong.

Nathan, who attends Manor Academy, plays Stabber, one of Nobby’s nine children.

He landed the role after seeing an advert on Facebook and local musician Max Bianco, of The Jar Family, filmed an audition tape.

Three weeks later he was invited to audition against 20 other youngsters in London at short notice.

“I met the director Louis (Leterrier) and Sacha and some of the cast,” added Nathan.

Filming took place in London and Milton Keynes in the summer of 2014, when Nathan was 13.

Mum Jayne Wainwright, of Rossmere, who was with him on set, said: “He had an absolutely amazing time and it was a fabulous opportunity for a lad from Hartlepool.

“All the cast were really good with the kids. If you can imagine with Sacha Baron Cohen, Johnny Vegas and Ricky Tomlinson it was comedy gold.

“It is thanks to the staff at Manor Academy and the effort they have put into him.”

At school Nathan is a key part of The Academy at Manor performing arts wing and has had leading roles in many shows over the last four years.

Ellie Hopwood, curriculum leader of creative and performing arts, said: “He has just gone from strength to strength.

“I think it is a great thing for his CV and could well be a stepping stone to other things.

“The most important thing is he has the right attitude.”

• Grimsby, rated 15, is out nationwide now.