Vicar clinches £2.5m movie deal

GP Taylor has a new book out in the summer

The Scarborough vicar who sold his motorbike to finance his first novel has clinched a £2.5m movie deal.

The Rev Graham Taylor says a Hollywood production company is to make a big-budget film of his best-selling children's story, Shadowmancer.

GP Taylor's tale of good versus evil is set in the 18th Century on the Yorkshire coast.

The film will be made at the book's original locations and may feature local actors as well as big stars.

The production company, Fortitude Films, wants Mel Gibson to direct the film, Donald Sutherland to play evil Rev Demurral and Sheffield actor Sean Bean has been approached to play the part of the mysterious smuggler, Jacob Crane.

"Hopefully we will also get some local talent to play the younger people," added Mr Taylor.

"It is a $4m deal on a $100m movie, which is a big-budget film," added Mr Taylor.

Copies of the book have been flying off the shelves

"We have actually demanded as part of the contract that it is filmed in Scarborough, Whitby and Robin Hood's Bay.

"I'm hopeful it will bring some added tourism when they see all the locations shot in and around the area."

Last November, Mr Taylor, 43, relinquished his role as the vicar of St Mary's Church in Cloughton, North Yorkshire, to work as a locum after suffering chest pains.

He said he had had little time with his family and his church duties coupled with his writing obligations had taken their toll on his health.

Working as a locum in the Scarborough area will ease the pressure, but still allow him to continue his ministry.

His second book, Wormwood, is due for release in the summer.