A YOUNG Gwent actress is taking the lead role in a new Welsh film which is currently in production.

Sarah Morgan, 26, of Risca, was chosen from thousands of hopefuls for the part of Janey in the musical feature.

It is hoped that Summertime will be shown at Cannes next year before moving on to other film festivals.

Ms Morgan decided to pursue an acting career while studying performing arts at Coleg Gwent's Cross Keys campus and gained valuable experience in many plays and musicals at the Dolman Theatre, Newport.

In 2004, she spent three months in London with the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain - performing to the likes of Sir Ian McKellen and Joseph Fiennes in the West End - before returning to complete her training at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.

Since graduation in 2006, Ms Morgan has had a number of professional acting roles as well as being a regular guest soloist with Risca Male Voice Choir as part of their Christmas concert season.

Summertime is being directed Maxine Evans, written and composed by Neil Anthony Docking and produced by Antony Smith of Tornado Films.

Set against the backdrop of a tough estate during one hot summer, Janey is a determined young mother who dreams of a bright future for her three young sons has to deal with an unforgiving reality and take on a violent gang.

"I am absolutely thrilled to be playing the part of Janey," said Ms Morgan. "She is a complex and exciting character an ideal role for me as I am able to use both my acting and singing skills."

The film is currently in production, being filmed in various locations in and around the Port Talbot area.