We've been contacted by a casting company, asking us to let Ouch readers - who might also be budding actors - know about five roles for disabled people in a forthcoming ITV drama (yes, we know it's the competition - ssshh, don't tell anyone!). The production is called Footprints in the Snow, and is based on a true story. It's set in Hampshire (though the shoot will take place around London), and the company describes this one-off TV film as featuring: "Caroline Quentin, [who] plays Julie, an energetic, vivacious woman who works as a sales-rep for a brewery, until a car crash changes her life." Although that makes it pretty obvious that the lead role has already been taken - and it's gone to an AB too! - there are still five other chances to get on telly, innit?

Although acting experience is preferable, people who have no previous acting background will also be considered. Here are the parts they're still looking to cast (the descriptions are in the casting company's own words, so don't blame us, OK?):

• Becky: 16 - 23. Recently totally paralysed competition swimmer. A fighter of great courage who becomes Julie's best friend. Big supporting role.

• Eamonn: 23 - 40. Paraplegic, comedian, Irish. Becomes friend of Julie. It is not vital that the actor be Irish as long as he has good comic timing. Good supporting role.

• Steve: 17 - 25. Bath Rugby player. Tetraplegic.

• Vivien: 25 - 40. Horse-riding accident. Tetraplegic.

• David: 23 - 40. Rugby club bar accident. Tetraplegic.

If you're interested, contact the casting agency via email or post, enclosing a CV and photo and marking your correspondence FAO Footprints in the Snow. The deadline is 15 January, 2005.

Email: ingridpoko@aol.com

Address: Carrie Hilton Casting, The Barley Mow Centre, 10 Barley Mow Passage, London W4 4PH.

And don't forget to say that the Crippled Monkey sent you.