Hardman Ian 'The Machine' Freeman is moving into a new career as a film star after battling a debilitating illness.

The Leadgate man has a principal role in an independent film about the murky world of bare-knuckle fighting.

He was offered the role after the producers saw him on a Sky TV show he co-presents.

The film also stars martial arts expert Gordon Alexander, who has worked with Jackie Chan, and Danny John-Jules, who appeared in the film Blade II and the sci-fi sitcom Red Dwarf.