A GROUP of disabled people - including a former international cricketer - from Wyre Forest have made a film about the difference social care staff have made to their lives.

Because of You looks at the lives of six people who use Worcestershire County Council's social services and premiered at County Hall, Worcester, with an audience of more than 200 people.

The film was created by a small team led by the council's director of social services, Jennie Bashforth, and made as a tribute to all the staff who work in the department.

She said: "The overwhelming positive reactions to the film from varying people and groups, both within and without the county council, has taken us by storm and has resulted in the film taking on a life of its own."

Each person featured in the film had a different story to tell. Winston Davis, of Bewdley, was a fast bowler for the West Indies cricket team and still holds the record for the most wickets taken in a one-day international.

Mr Davis became disabled in 1997 after falling from a tree while helping to build a church in the Caribbean.

His story shows how direct payments can help people take more control over their lives. He said: "This film shows part of the real lives of people who have a disability.

"People with a disability can often be seen as just takers and so, for me, starring in this film gave me the opportunity to give something back to the community."

Gertrude James, of Offmore Farm estate, has been in hospital with cancer but is now living back in her own home with the help of carers who visit her four times a day.

She said: "I look forward to them coming in ... it would have broken me up if I'd had to go into a home."

Awards were presented to the service users who featured in the film at the premiere.

Home care assistant, Jenny Smith, also received the Social Care Award from Professor Antony Sheehan, director of care services from the Department of Health.

Mr Sheehan said: "Because Of You is truly inspirational and clearly demonstrates the value of social care."

The DVD is being used to support recruitment and retention within social care and will also be used in universities and colleges as part of their course material.

For further information about the film, call 01905 766960 or e-mail: becauseofyou@worcestershire.gov.uk