Hap-pea days for Birds Eye star Summer
A Maidstone youngster is following in the footsteps of actress Patsy Kensit, after being made the face of Birds Eye’s latest TV ad.
The Emmerdale and Holby City star’s career was launched after being the poster girl for the frozen food giant’s campaign for peas in 1973.
Now six-year-old Summer Russell, from Boughton Monchelsea, has taken on the mantle, including the famous cheek pop.
The schoolgirl, who lives in Bodkins Close and attends Tiger Primary, was chosen for the advert after Razzamataz Theatre School, Maidstone, put her in touch with a talent agency two years ago.
Birds Eye then specifically requested for Summer to audition for the part.
Proud mum Kira, 33, said: “It was very exciting, we were chauffeured up to London and she spent a whole day on set.
“She does love peas which is a good thing because she had to eat them for take after take.
“As soon as she had taken a mouthful, a new batch of fresh peas would arrive on her plate but she wasn’t phased by it. And she still wanted tea when she got home.”
Summer joined Razzamataz Theatre School in Hubbards Lane two years ago and is also a member of Maidstone Dance Studios in Brunswick Street.
The Birds Eye commission is her first, after being dropped for a Green Flag campaign at the last minute.
The advert, which show peas being picked and then enjoyed by a family sitting down to dinner, appeared on TV for the first time last week.
Mrs Russell, who works at Coral bookmakers in Gabriels Hill, Maidstone, said: “We watched it about 20 times and got message after message when friends and family had seen it. I can’t describe the emotion of seeing her – my husband Ryan and I were crying. We are so proud.
“She’s always been a drama queen and loves singing and dancing.”
“And even if it is the only one she ever does it is an experience she will have forever.”
To watch the advert, visit kentonline.co.uk/maidstone