When Stephen Murrell started selling the Big Issue he had no idea it would lead to an appearance in a film.

Two years ago, he was cold, hungry and living on Brighton's streets.

Now he is to appear in Big Pockets, a short film by regular magazine buyer Charlie Day, which he hopes will change people's perceptions about homeless people.

Stephen, 35, said: "When Charlie asked me I was quite shocked and a bit nervous. I had never done any acting before. But I thought it would be a nice thing to do."

Big Pockets follows a day in the life of a downtrodden hotel porter, Mr Baldwin, who passes Stephen on his way to work.

He has no change to buy a Big Issue but by the end of the day his pockets are bulging with tips, which he changes into £100 in notes.

Mr Baldwin passes Stephen that night, sitting on a bench and exhausted after a day selling the magazine.

Stephen, who has been a Big Issue seller for 18 months, said: "It is late and I have nowhere to sleep but he shoves the money in my pocket and I act all surprised and happy. It wasn't difficult. I was just being myself."

Stephen has had first-hand experience of such generosity.

Last Christmas, a regular customer handed him an envelope with £200 in it. He rushed after her to give it back but she said: "No, it's yours."

He was overjoyed and treated himself to some new clothes.

Stephen, whose regular spot is outside Waitrose in Western Road, said: "I have never begged in my life but I enjoy selling the Big Issue. I don't hassle anyone, I just say 'Hello' and 'Have a nice day'.

Stephen found himself on the streets after being made redundant.

His relationship with his fiance broke down and he had to leave his home. He said: "I had no money, no clothes. I lost everything.

"But now I sell the Big Issue, I have a bit of money in my pocket and am no longer on the streets."

Big Pockets, produced on a budget of £250, also stars three actresses from ITV's drama Bad Girls: Alicya Eyo, Vicky Alcock and Sharon Duncan-Brewster.

According to Brighton Big Issue manager Peter Wileman, such opportunities can provide a much-needed confidence boost.

He said: "Stephen was asked because Charlie likes him. He is popular with customers and shopkeepers.

"Living on the streets kills people's self-confidence but getting involved in something like this can really boost their self-esteem."

Big Pockets, which was written and is being directed and produced by Charlie, a Brighton-based actor, is being filmed around the city.

He hopes to send it to Cannes and other film festivals. Stephen is now living in bed and breakfast accommodation.