An extra in the final season of Channel 4's Derry Girls has spoken out about the importance of representation for actors with disabilities.
Eamonn Doherty, who has cerebral palsy, featured in the funeral scene of Episode 6 of Season 3 alongside his friend Sean McGlinchey.
Once the final season had been announced, Eamonn contacted director Michael Lennox while Sean contacted Derry Girls writer Lisa McGee, who were both keen in getting Eamonn on the show.
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Eamonn spoke to MyDerry about the importance of this role to him and the wider community.
He said: "It felt amazing, it was a dream come true. From series one I always wanted to be on the show, I always knew I was going to be apart of the show.
"I know being an extra for some people isn’t a big deal but for me given my cerebral palsy it was a massive opportunity and achievement. I really felt apart of something.
"I think it’s very important to see people from diverse backgrounds and abilities on tv shows as it gives people from similar backgrounds to myself with disabilities that the screen is for everyone no matter your age, race or disability."
Eamonn and his family all sat down to watch the episode this week, eagerly waiting to see if he had made it onto the screen.
Eamonn said: "It felt unreal, me and my family were just sitting watching it and the next minute I was on.
"Even though I was only on for a few seconds it still felt amazing, my family got a bit emotional and that made me emotional too in a happy way.
"After it was over I checked my phone and I had lots of messages from wider family and friends congratulating me and that felt amazing.
"None of this would have been possible by my friend Sean McGlinchey by my side helping me get on so a big thanks to him."
As well as an extra in the hit show, Eamonn is a key member of community organisation 'Engage - Learning Northwest'.
A representative from Engage told MyDerry how it felt to see Eamonn on the screen.
They said: "Eamonn being on the show was amazing, it's all we talked about for weeks and he was giving nothing away!
"This is a great achievement for Eamonn and acting is his first love so it was a proud moment for all his colleagues when we saw him on last nights episode.
"Eamonn is a resourceful young man and he will do whatever it is he sets his mind to.
"Can't wait to see what he lands himself in next!"
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