HandMade Films has signed on UK writer Rupert Walters to write a screenplay based on the life of Special Air Service (SAS) creator David Stirling.

HandMade has optioned Alan Hoe's biography David Stirling - the Authorised Biography. The books gives a detailed account of the history of the multi-national SAS during the North African campaign of 1941-1942. Sitrling at age 26 led the first successful Special Operations raid behind German lines in December 1941.

Walters previously wrote for TV's Spooks as well as the films Restoration, Some Girls and True Blue.

HandMade Films MD Antony Rufus Isaacs said: 'Rupert is without doubt one of Britain 's foremost writers, having worked with Jodie Foster, Mike Medavoy and Michael Mann, as well as the BBC. This is an epic and incredibly exciting project that HandMade Films is embarking on.'

'I am absolutely thrilled to be working with Antony and the Handmade team on this project,' Walters added. 'I have been fascinated by the exploits and achievements of David Stirling for many years and am looking forward to bringing his amazing story to the big screen.'

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