From Sweeney extra to star

Ray Winstone admits his role in the movie remake of The Sweeney brings him "full circle" after he appeared as an extra in the original TV show more than 30 years ago.

The actor plays Flying Squad cop Jack Regan, the part made famous by John Thaw, in the film which co-stars musician-turned-actor Ben Drew.

Drew, better known as Plan B, plays George Carter, who was played by Dennis Waterman in the original show.

Winstone said: "My first ever job was on The Sweeney.

"I was an extra in an episode called Loving Arms in the Red Cow in Hammersmith, looking at John Thaw and Dennis Waterman so it's come full circle for me."

He said it was a "very difficult" film to make because the original show was so "iconic", but praised his co-star Drew.

Winstone said: "I saw him in Harry Brown and it was kind of my idea to bring him in because he looks like he can kick a door down and he can actually act as well.

"He writes songs, he directs films, he writes films, you know.

"I think it's kind of what it is today. These kids come along and it's not jack of all trades, they are actually good at what they do.

"You kind of go along as an older actor and you learn something yourself."