Filming has begun on new British comedy movie Fisherman's Friends.

The "heartwarming comedy" is inspired by the true story of Port Isaac's Fishermen's Friends (pictured), who went from singing in the village harbour to securing a deal with Island Records, a top-ten album and performing on the pyramid stage at Glastonbury.

The film is being made by the same team that produced the recent feel-good hit Finding Your Feet.

Describing the plot, producers say: "In a twist of fate, cynical music executive Danny finds himself in a small Cornish village trying to sign a group of shanty singing fishermen. Attempting to overcome the fishermen's skepticism about the music business he finds himself drawn into the community, has his integrity tested and ultimately is shown the meaning of loyalty, love and friendship."

Daniel Mays, James Purefoy, David Hayman, Dave Johns, Sam Swainsbury, Tuppence Middleton, Maggie Steed and Noel Clarke have been signed up to star in the picture.

Filming is now under way on location in Port Isaac, with Fred Films and Powder Keg Pictures overseeing production. Chris Foggin is the director, with writers Meg Leonard and Nick Moorcroft producing alongside James Spring. St Trinian's writer Piers Ashworth has also worked on the script.

Meg Leonard and Nick Moorcroft say: "As soon as we saw the news headline about ten singing fishermen signing a million pound record deal we knew this was a story that had to be told and one that audiences would want to see."

James Spring adds: "Fisherman's Friends provides a perfect follow up to the success of Finding Your Feet and demonstrates that there is a real appetite in today's marketplace for uplifting and moving comedies."

James Scott from distribution company Legacy comments: "The script has struck a chord with buyers around the world who have responded to this universal tale of camaraderie. The film is a celebration of humanity and it's a joy to be involved."

The new film is expected to be released in cinemas in 2019.