Four Bradford University students are counting down to success after convincing a TV star to appear in their first film.

The quartet were facing a conundrum about how to give their final year movie project an extra spark of star quality when they hit on the idea of asking TV quizmaster Richard Whiteley to lend a hand.

To their surprise the Countdown host, famed for his colourful ties and deadpan delivery, agreed to help and film a cameo role for the movie which was made on a budget of only £800.

Paul Breed, 21, the film's producer, said the students were delighted when the Bradford-born TV personality said he would take part.

He said: "We were really pleased that Mr Whiteley agreed to appear in our film - all students watch Countdown and the man's a living legend!

"Basically we just phoned him up and asked him if he would mind doing it and he said he would be quite willing. We were quite surprised really.

"We had to go along to Yorkshire TV one night about an hour before he was due to go on air for his first Friday Whiteley show and we filmed his part in about 15 minutes flat.

"We wanted someone who would be instantly recognisable and Richard Whiteley fits that perfectly. Everyone knows who he is.

"We filmed him handing over a lottery cheque to one of our characters and he just ad-libbed a bit of banter.

"He was really good. We'd heard he had a reputation for being a bit of a prima donna but we was wonderful to us.

"He hasn't seen the film yet but says he's really keen to see how it turns out."

The 40-minute film, called Losers, tells the story of three friends who win the lottery but then lose their prize ticket while out celebrating at the pub.

Mr Whiteley, said: "They seemed very good, very professional. I didn't have to do a lot in the film, just hand over a lottery cheque, but it was fun.

"I haven't seen the film yet but they said they are going to send me a copy and I'm looking forward to seeing it.

"I wish them luck in the future. We want to encourage as much media talent as we can in Bradford."

The four students behind the movie, writer Stephen Smith, editor David Bridge, cameraman Andrew Lawrie and producer Paul Breed, pictured, are all studying media technology and production and all hope to go on to work in the TV industry after graduating.

Losers will be given its public premiere at the Pictureville Cinema in June and film buffs can also visit its website at www.fuzionfilms.co.uk.