YOUNGSTERS have paid just $1 to adapt a Stephen King book into a film.

Blaenau Gwent Academy in Tredegar, which is supported by BBC Children In Need, is adapting Stephen King's 'Stationery Bike' into a film, with permission from the author.

This was arranged by tutor, Kevin Phillips, who wrote to the office of Mr King to seek permission.

Mr Phillips said: “Stephen King is very supportive of educational establishments; we had a reply from his office within 24 hours.

“It is great for our students who are fans of his writing and a great scoop for the Academy, he also wanted us to send a copy so he could see it after its finished."

Blaenau Gwent Academy is the first of its kind that is free for people, between age 7 and 18-years-old, to attend, and had more than 70 members, creating films to be entered in festivals around the globe.

"We didn't realise what a big deal it was at first," admitted tutor, Kevin Phillips.

"We've started working on the screenplay and are hoping to start filming in January. Stephen King replied within the space of a week, and this is a wonderful training opportunity.

"It's great for the young ones, not just for their CV, but to have work directly linked to an author who everybody knows."

The Academy aims to help children develop skills in scriptwriting, acting, filmmaking, confidence, literacy, numeracy, IT and team work. They will create short films to be showcased at The Little Theatre in Tredegar.

Alfie Evans is leading the production with Cerys Cliff and said: "I can’t believe we have this opportunity, I’m a huge fan and to be working on this is like a dream come true.”

Blaenau Gwent Film Academy runs classes, at The Little Theatre, between 3.30pm and 5.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. On Saturday these classes are between 10.30am and 12.30pm.

To find out more, or get involved, contact Kevin Phillips on: 07545 121713 or email him at: kevin@cymrucreations.co.uk