An Ipswich man who grew up on the fringes of gang culture has turned his life around, acting in a film set to feature in the Raindance Film Festival.

Kashif O'Connor, who lives in the Westbourne area of Ipswich, is set to play one of the leading roles in Warhol, a film that will premiere at the festival on October 31.

The 38-year-old plays Solomon, a homeless ex-military man who tries to persuade a young man against committing a murder as an initiation to enter a gang.

Mr O’Connor said: “The movie is really about role models and the misdirection of the youth today.

Ipswich Star: Warhol was filmed in London locations last year.Warhol was filmed in London locations last year. (Image: Kashif O'Connor)

“I had quite a dark upbringing. I was born and grew up in poverty in Ipswich and I was groomed into gang culture from around 13 years old. I didn't know any better.

"I was involved in crime, and it just grew as I could see other young kids following the trend. I knew the implications that my actions had on other people, and I want to give back.”

After studying Film at the University of Suffolk, the actor was pulled on-set from his position as a runner, following an unexpected meeting.

He said: “I got into acting through fortunate events. I went to a restaurant and my friend's uncle was there and he was transitioning from comedy into film, I jumped on this film set with him just running around, but then I had the opportunity for a role on the stage.

Ipswich Star: On the set of WarholOn the set of Warhol (Image: Kashif O'Connor)

“I was asked if I could do it, I said yes, quickly learnt the lines, went to make up, dress, and bam. It was alongside Corey Johnson [The Conversation]. I watched him as a kid in The Mummy, Bourne Supremacy. He said I smashed it, and from there I thought I’d go into acting.”

Warhol premieres on October 31 at the Raindance Film Festival, which runs from October 25 to November 4.