A CUMBRIAN born actor has debuted in her first ever feature film - which will be premiered at the UK's biggest genre film festival next month.

Gwyneth Evans, originally from Pardshaw Hall, near Cockermouth and a Cockermouth School alumni, has performed in her debut feature film, 'Fright', in the leading role of Emily.

'Fright' will be having its world premiere at FrightFest next month.

FrightFest is the UK's biggest genre film festival (specialising in horror), and this year it's celebrating its 25th anniversary.

The event is being held across two Odeon Luxe venues in Leicester Square from August 22-26, in cinemas known for hosting UK premieres for Hollywood films (such as 'Star Wars', 'Top Gun: Maverick' and 'Oppenheimer'). 

Gwyneth EvansGwyneth Evans (Image: Supplied)

Speaking about the experience, Gwyneth said: "Since graduating drama school in 2020 I've worked mainly on short films, so I'm incredibly excited to have worked on my first feature, especially to have it premiere at such an iconic festival and venue.

"The film is set to screen at various other film festivals, and will later be available on streaming sites."

The film, set in 1937, follows Emily (played by Gwyneth) who is trapped in a nightmare. Her chronic agoraphobia and strange, domineering mother have turned their sprawling gothic mansion into a prison.

The film is set in 1937The film is set in 1937 (Image: Supplied)

Emily, on the brink of madness, is haunted by the malevolent forces lurking just outside. Her only hope is the desperate belief her missing father could save her from this living hell. But as she longs for his return, Emily is tormented by visions of a sinister, gnarled black hand.

Fright is a homage to the unsettling atmosphere of 1950s black and white horror cinema, echoing films such as The Innocents.

The film is directed by Warren Dudley ('Six Years Gone' and 'The Bromley Boys') and also stars Jill Priest, and features Daniel Tuite (known for his roles in 'Game of Thrones' and Netflix's 'The Sandman').

Gwyneth on set during filmingGwyneth on set during filming (Image: Supplied)

Fright will be screening at Odeon Luxe West End at 1pm on Monday, August 26 on Discovery Screen 2. Tickets for the screening go on sale midday on Saturday, July 20.