A TELEVISION extra has praised a popular ITV drama for being inclusive and providing opportunities to people with learning disabilities.

Stephen Castelow, 31, is from Hexham and featured on the first episode of the thirteenth season of ITV's production Vera, which aired on Sunday, January 7.

Hexham Courant: Stephen Castelow and actor Amit Shah, on the set of Vera Stephen Castelow and actor Amit Shah, on the set of Vera (Image: Supplied)

Stephen, who has a learning disability and autism, is supported by Hexham-based Natural Ability, a disability services and support organisation. 

The Vera episode, which was filmed in May 2023 in Hexham's marketplace, featured Stephen as a market shopper. 

Hexham Courant: Stephen CastelowStephen Castelow (Image: Supplied)

He said he felt 'proud' of being on the show and was glad to be represented.

Debbie, Stephen's support worker, said ITV's production was supportive and encouraged Stephen in his role on the show. 

Hexham Courant: Stephen and a member of the ITV crewStephen and a member of the ITV crew (Image: Supplied)

"Stephen was on the set for four days and he's always wanted to be on television. He got to see how they recorded the show, he got to meet all the actors and got loads of pictures.

"They allowed Stephen to feel valued and be on television.

Hexham Courant: Stephen reading his scriptStephen reading his script (Image: Supplied)

"Everyone was really friendly and he made loads of friends, everyone loved him. The staff were so good with him, they kept him up to date with what was happening because he was a bit impatient sometimes." 

Stephen said he chatted to Brenda Blethyn, and the following day the actor made the effort to speak with him again.

Hexham Courant: Stephen and Amit ShahStephen and Amit Shah (Image: Supplied)

Debbie said: "The next day she came over and she even remembered him by name and asked him how he was doing. She made a massive effort to come and speak to him, and he had his photo taken with her."

Stephen added he hopes to do more acting in the future and has applied for television quiz shows including Wheel of Fortune, Tipping Point and The Chase.

"Everyone should have the opportunity to be represented on television and it's important for people with learning disabilities to get opportunities," he said.

Stephen is a member of the drama group at Gateway Into the Community and also volunteers at Adapt Cafe in Hexham.