A REAL life chicken factory worker who appeared as an extra in an acclaimed film set at one in Flintshire has spoken of her "amazing" experience.

Vanessa Roberts, from Connah's Quay, featured as an extra in Chuck Chuck Baby - a film set in Flint which hit cinemas last month.

The film was directed by Janis Pugh, from Flint, who briefly worked in the chicken factory in Deeside - from which much of the inspiration for the film came.

It stars Louise Brealey (Sherlock), Annabel Scholey (The Salisbury Poisoning, The Sixth Commandment) Sorcha Cusack (Snatch, Father Brown, Jane Eyre), Celyn Jones (Set Fire to the Stars).

The main character, Helen, spends her nights packing chickens and her days caring for a dying mother-figure Gwen. Helen’s world takes an unexpected turn with the return of Joanne. They were the objects of the other’s unspoken teenage passions 20 years ago. One night, encouraged by Helen, Joanne starts a playful wooing game that re-awakens their youthful feelings. 

The film has been met with acclaim, earning four out of five star reviews from the Guardian and The Observer, and 7.6 out of 10 on IMDB. 

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​And Vanessa, who herself worked at the chicken factory in Sandycroft 20 years ago, has spoken about her experience working on the film - alongside ex-colleagues Amanda Waite-Jones and Babs Waite. 

Speaking about closely the film aligns with her experiences working at the factory, Vanessa said: "More or less totally perfectly, we all went through so much together. Some were like mentors to us.

"We were just young girls green around the ears we went through so much altogether marriages engagements people having babies heartbreaks all sorts. Honestly, it was very much like the real thing. Janis went to the chicken factory very briefly so she knew the camaraderie that took place."

She continued: "It was hilarious at times and I’ve made some lifelong friends. We have a WhatsApp group called the Chuck Chuck babes and we regularly meet up for drinks and chats. It’s pretty amazing.

"You can’t have enough friends, and when something like that, which probably happens once in a lifetime together, it’s kind of a strong bond. I’ve done extra work before I’ve been on Coronation Street about three times but honestly I found it a little bit boring in the end - but being in a film well that is something else."

Vanessa added: "It’s so amazing and really proud of all the girls that took part and very proud of Janis Pugh. She is a one in a million woman. I hope and I’m sure that she'll go from strength to strength. She’s definitely made her name."