THERE was a starring role behind the camera for one woman looking to raise awareness of rheumatoid arthritis.

Donna Saunders, from Northwick, worked as AN authenticity assistant on the short film Behind the Smile which explains what daily life is like for people living with the condition.

The video was filmed in London over two days and Mrs Saunders was on hand every step of the way, talking to the flim crew and actress to make sure it was an accurate.

The mother-of-two has volunteered for National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) for many years and set up a Worcester branch in 2009.

Charity staff immediately thought of Mrs Saunders as she was "always smiling" despite her diagnosis when they began work on the film with pharmaceuticals company Lilly.

Mrs Saunders, who was first diagnosed at 17, said: "I spoke to them about rheumatoid arthritis and I would watch the filming then explain how she would be moving at certain points.

"They really looked after me and listened to my input.

"So far it has had positive feedback about how it is realistic which I hope means I've done a good job and got the message across.

"Some people have asked why they didn't use an actor with RA but the long days, early starts and late finishes would have been too exhausting.

"For me, my aim has always been to raise awareness because there are lots of misconceptions between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

"People don't always know what rheumatoid arthritis is or haven't heard of NRAS.

"It can affect anyone at any age."

Worcester NRAS will be holding a Christmas party on Friday, December 9 at Archdales, Windermere Drive, from 7pm.

Family tickets cost £12 in advance or £15 on the door, adults £5/£6 or children £2.50/£3 available by calling 07791 694 330.

* Watch Behind the Smile online at worcesternews.co.uk.