AS FATHER Jack Hackett, he's got a colourful vocabulary, is obsessed with drink and his crusty appearance is hardly a credit to the priesthood.

But respected Irish actor Frank Kelly, star of the hit Channel Four comedy Father Ted, is al- together different in his latest role - helping out two young Gwent film makers with their low-budget movie.

Mr Kelly is taking on the role of a quiet, loving grandfather for the 10-minute film.

Students Keri Collins, 26, and Paul West, 24, wrote the script as part of their final project on the Film and Video BA degree at University of Wales, Newport.

Mr Collins said: "We sent the script off to Frank's agent and he got back to us the same day and said he loved the script and would like to take part." The Dublin-based actor said he was impressed with the writing.

"When I read it I was interested straight away. This film is very subtle and poignant. The boys know what they want and they do it in good humour." The role is that of a granddad having a day out with his grandson.

"The granddad is a very gentle widower and there is something about the scene, it is so Victorian and so beautiful," Mr Kelly said.

The film, A Day Out With Gwyn, wrapped up yesterday with final scenes being filmed on the pier in Penarth.

The film will be the final production of the three-year course at Newport. "It's a light-hearted coming of age film and it's character based, it's based on our experiences of teenage years," said Mr Collins.

The students are both fans of the actor and said they first got acquainted when Mr Kelly invited them to his home in Dublin.

"We wanted to meet him before we started filming to get to know each other and he invited us to his home.

"It was very surreal, we were nervous but we enjoyed it. His wife made dinner and we had some wine. They were lovely," said Mr Collins.

With the sound track being compiled by BAFTA winner and Oscar nominated Danny Chang, the students hope to finish editing and see the final result at screenings in UGC Cinema, Cardiff and Chapter Arts Centre in April.