Legend of Holy Thorn in Glastonbury goes to Hollywood

A film is set to be made by Hollywood producers on the Glastonbury legend of Joseph of Arimathea and the Holy Thorn.

The £50m-budget film Glastonbury: Isle of Light is set for release in 2012 and has been written and produced by Daniel McNicoll with Galatia Films.

In December the Holy Thorn on Wearyall Hill was cut down by vandals but efforts are being made to re-grow it.

The legend relates to Joseph who planted Jesus's staff into the ground on Wearyall Hill 2,000 years ago.

A tree grew, and it is believed the hawthorn sprouted from a cutting of the tree. It is one of several Holy Thorns planted around Glastonbury.

Daniel McNicoll said: "This is a British story so I think it needs to be told through British landscape.

"We want ancient Glastonbury to be shot in places like the Isle of Man, Ireland, Wales, and Somerset.

"Clearly the topography is much different than it was 2,000 years ago and we will be using digital effects to take out some of the modern buildings, so it is very much a different place."

The film producer has said he was aware of the Holy Thorn being vandalised which he described as "punch in the gut" but believes the tree will re-grow successfully.

Avon and Somerset police are still continuing their enquires and a reward of £200 has been offered by the town council for more information.