A MULTI-million pound film about the life of a gangster who became a homeless drug addict could be filmed in Wrexham.

It is understood that scripts for Addict have been sent to Johnny Depp and Michael Caine.

Addict is the story of former drug addict and gangster Stephen Smith, who wrote a successful book about his experiences. That book is set to become a film thanks to publishers Westworld International and it could be shot in Wrexham.

Londoner Smith spent five years as a beggar. He travelled the UK and stayed for a while in Wrexham. Filming will begin on both the movie and a TV documentary about Smith in September, giving the town two chances to feature.

Before he became homeless, Stephen Smith lived the life of a rich playboy - but all his money came from crime. Even then he was an addict, having become hooked on drugs at the age of 14. Eventually, he lost his mansion, fast cars and horses as his world came crashing down.

After five years on the streets he met his wife, a German girl studying in Britain, and now lives with her and their two sons in Germany.

His book Addict has sold 1.2 million copies.

'It is a powerful story and one which sends out a clear warning about the dangers of drugs,' said Westworld spokesman Giles Davies.

'We are making a film and have sent the script to a number of high-profile actors who are looking at it.'

Giles is hopeful the film will be the directorial debut of Andy Serkis, the man who played Gollum in Lord of the Rings, although Serkis's agent has denied his involvement in Addict.

'I have personally spoken to Andy on a number of occasions,' said Giles. 'He wants to do this and all we need to sort out is the paperwork as he is working in New Zealand at the moment. I cannot comment on the actions of his agent, that is between them.'

The feature film was earmarked to be made six years ago with Robbie Williams but script issues and personal difficulties saw the project fall through.

'Wrexham has not been confirmed as a location yet but we will be visiting the town this week to consider our final decision,' said Giles.

'In addition to the film will be the documentary, in which Stephen revisits the towns he lived in as a homeless man.

'He will be looking at how the towns have changed over the years and what effect that has had on the homeless population. We are also launching a charity for homeless and drug-addicted people called Addict.

The Wales Screen Commission said it was unaware of the project.

'We are currently investigating the claims but have not confirmed anything at this stage,' said WSC national coordinator Mike Wallwork.