“I’ve always wanted to be happy so I decided to be” - Neil Baldwin

The film Marvellous aired on BBC2 last night which told the heart warming, true story of Neil Baldwin played by Toby Jones who refused to be labelled by his learning difficulties. Throughout the film Neil is portrayed as man who never gives up and goes out and gets what he wants whether joining the circus as “Nello” the clown, working for Lou Macari at Stoke City FC or working at Keele University meeting and greeting students.

Our service users Christopher and Paul from The Woodlands in Wolstanton were featured singing in the Neil Baldwin Choir at various intervals throughout the film. The pair are part of local drama group - M.Y Theatre Group who were asked by the makers of the film Tiger Aspect & Fifty Fathoms to become members of the choir in the programme.

Filming for Marvellous took place at various local locations in and around Stoke including Keele University. “The singing was the best bit” said Christopher when asked about what he enjoyed most about participating in the film; Paul added “it took all day to film to our part.”

The mantra Neil Baldwin has lived his life by is “I’ve always wanted to be happy so I decided to be” and this steely determination was shown throughout the film in everything he set his mind at doing. It really demonstrates the point that just because a person has a learning disability they shouldn’t feel restricted or defined by it.

If you didn’t get chance to watch the film last night or if you enjoyed it so much you want to see it again you can catch it on the BBCiPlayer.