Teenage Leeds actor stars in new British LGBTQ film

Mencap ambassador George Webster, 19, of Rawdon, plays one of two teenage boys called Sam who fall in love with each other at their local park in the film called S.A.M.

The second Sam is played by Ackley Bridge star Sam Retford.

The film deals with themes including how society treats people living with disabilities and stereotypes regarding sexuality and disability.

It also deals with some of the issues faced by young people from disadvantaged and broken families.

George Webster, said: “The film is important to me because it's about being yourself, accepting yourself and accepting others for who they are.

"The film also shows that people with disabilities have the ability to be strong actors.

"Another thing that's important for visibility is that we can have equal opportunities and equal rights too.”

George's dad Rob Webster, said: "People with a learning disability like to be seen as people first. He is George, he is not his learning disability.

"He is a real positive force of nature. He tends to think he can do anything and it ends up working out for him."

"the film is all about difference and how people should be seen for the people they are.

"The script is really funny and the way it's done is really nice and touching."

David Tag said: "“Being given the opportunity to work on this exciting project with Sam Retford and George Webster, who are both extremely talented actors, has been incredibly liberating. I feel lucky to be part of such a progressive and inclusive film."

S.A.M. will be entered into film festivals around the world, including high profile festivals like Cannes, and the BFI London Film Festival.

Rob Webster, said: "George has a passion for acting, dance and musical theatre. He has performed on TV, film and in the theatre.

"He has been part of MeshDance inclusive dance troupe for a decade.

"Their film TellTale premiered at the Leeds Young People Film Festival and has been shown at multiple venues, including the English National Opera.

" He is about to tour England with his other troupe, TalentHub performing their show Helm, supported by TinArts and the Arts Council.

"He is a parkrun ambassador, which led to him being the subject of the short film Jessica's parkrun heroes for Sky in 2019. He has also done extra work for Emmerdale.

"He has acted at the Leeds City Varieties, Yeadon Town Hall and danced at many venues across Yorkshire, including the Northern School of Contemporary Dance, Northern Ballet, Cast and West Yorkshire Playhouse."