Singer Mel C is hoped to bring a bit of spice to Chippenham for the screening of locally-produced movie Bash Street, due to be premiered at the Astoria Reel Cinema.

Former Spice Girl Mel wrote a theme song for the low-budget production, which stars actor Con O’Neill and former EastEnders actress Jan Graveson.

The film was put together over five years on a budget of just £7,000 by Chippenham charity Kandu Arts.

Bash Street director Ed Deedigan, who runs Kandu Arts, has been holding behind-closed-doors viewings this week in preparation for its launch on May 14.

The former Sheldon School student, who returned from London to live in Chippenham in 1997, said he felt emotional to see the film screened.

“I was nearly crying, seriously, I was filling up. I remember going to that cinema as a teen and saw some really significant films there,” he said.

The former London drama student, who studied alongside the likes of Damon Albarn, met Mel C at a party more than ten years ago. She agreed to sing a song for the film, which she recorded at Kandu Arts’ offices in Foghamshire.

He said: “She’s hoping to get down for the screening but I don’t think she will get to the premiere.”

The film interrelates a number of real-life experiences of crime, growing up and relationships. It was filmed around the town, including at Karma nightclub, Revolutions restaurant and The Audley Arms. It also features more than 100 local people, many of whom were from the North Wiltshire Young People’s Theatre Group.

Mr Deedigan said: “I think people will be excited to see themselves or someone they know. It’s been the best fun I’ve ever had.

“The film is dark and heartbreaking but the majority of people involved are people I know and they have done it with great will and I’m massively proud.

“It’s a great model for the community that shows its great links and the bonds of respect, as well as the countless talent.”

It was funded by the Regional Investment Fund for England through the UK Film Council and South West Screen. Tickets cost £5. It will be screened after 10pm daily for a week from May 18.