A CREATIVE duo from Cirencester are appealing for the public’s help, as they hope to make a stunning short film to enter in national festivals.

Director Phil Cook and producer George Collings have worked together to make short movies for businesses and individuals in the Cotswolds.

Their most recent project involved creating a short promotion video for Peppers sandwich shop in Cirencester.

Now, they want to step up their game.

Both men are launching a fundraising campaign on website Kickstarter to generate the money to make a short 12 minute film starring well-known Cotswold actress and otter lover Daphne Neville.

“Our ultimate goal is to enter it into festivals but we are determined to make it to the highest standard possible,” said Phil, 49, who recently acted in the TV adaption of J K Rowling’s novel The Casual Vacancy.

He added: “I think the film is going to be something that will potentially be really good.”

George, 19, who studied media at Cirencester College, explained that those who donate towards the film, which is titled Cold Caller, will be rewarded.

“They could get a photo, or a signed script or special credit in the film,” he said.

Online fundraising site Kickstarter is a popular place for people to raise money to fund their new business idea or project.

The pair will have to reach their goal of £2,700 in 30 days or they will not receive any of the money.

For example, if they only manage to raise £1,000 by their deadline, Kickstarter will refund all those who donated.

“In the acting profession it is so hard so get any work,” added Phil. “So we have to make our own. It would be great if local filmmakers were successful.”

Their film is about an elderly woman, played by actress and presenter Daphne Neville, who encounters a cold caller who is not all he seems.

Daphne, 77, said she is delighted to support a campaign so close to home.

“Phil has had this amazing idea which I think is wonderful and I was thrilled to be asked,” she said.

“It’s very special. I think it’s important – as actors who live in such a lovely place, it’s a great privilege to do something near to home.

“I’m excited. I love stories with a twist at the end like this one. It’s helpful to people too. It’s basically about the security of one’s home. You never know who’s coming knocking on your door.”

The Kickstarter campaign is due to be launched this Saturday.

Visit facebook.co.uk and search for Cold Caller to donate to the movie project.