Television role is just my cup of tea!

Mar 30 2007 By Kat Keogh, Birmingham Mail

POPULAR market trader Carl Spiegel is about to become a TV star - in an advert for tea.

The Bullring Market fruit and veg man is to front an advert for Tetley's Tea, but bashful Carl insists he won't be watching himself.

"Even though I enjoyed every minute making the advert, I wouldn't swap the market for anything."

Carl, aged 57, beat off competition from hundreds of hopefuls after a friend persuaded him to audition.

"I'm really humbled to be chosen," he said.

"I've got a copy of the advert on DVD, but haven't looked at it. My wife's seen it though, so I'm taking her word for it that I'm any good!"

Carl had to audition three times for the role, and said he doesn't have any stirring ambitions to make it a full-time career.

"Of course, it was exciting being on a set and filming was easy as you just had to be yourself.

"I've been here for over 25 years and nearly all of my customers are regulars who stop off for a chat and to see a friendly face."

Filming for the advert took place last month in London, and Carl features alongside other members of the public in the new campaign.

The commercial will be launched on Monday on ITV1 at 7.20pm.