Simon Rickards studied Film and Television at the University of Surrey, and has worked for Cineworld, Arqiva Media, BBC and Sky TV. He has a passion for all kinds of cinema, particularly social realism and drama and established Godiva Films in 2005. He has written, produced and directed a number of short films and documentaries, many of which have been selected for Film Festivals around the world. He wrote British Made over a two-year period, researching the subject intensively, always trying to base the script on real-life events. As a Director, Simon tries to draw out natural performances from his cast whilst providing guidance and direction to help actors refine their delivery and he encourages improvisation through script and acting workshops.