A poignant British drama filmed along the Kent coast and streaming now on Netflix has been described as gut-wrenching by viewers.

Big Boy's Don't Cry, based on the real story of abuse at St Leonard's children home, was released in 2020 but added to the streaming service last month.

It quickly made it into the top 10 films being watched in the UK.

Parts of the drama were filmed in Deal - with viewers able to recognise the pier, beach and shops.

But it has left people shocked and saddened at the truly awful acts of child abuse in the Essex home, which took place between the 1960s and 1980s.

The film shows in graphic detail the horrific physical and sexual abuse that the children suffered.

The drama follows the real life story of Paul Connelly, who is played by 'This Is England' star Michael Socha.

Halfway through the film, Connelly and his girlfriend, played by Zoë Tapper, take a day trip to Deal where many familiar spots are seen on camera.

The pair are filmed throwing stones into the sea, walking along the pier and buying food from Mario's Fish Bar.

They are also pictured sitting on the pebbles at the beach, while a well-known seating area is also seen.

Taking to social media, audiences have praised the film

One Twitter user said: "This film! Wow! 100% deserves awards and recognition.

"Intensely emotional and gut wrenching. There's some awful humans in this world #bigboysdontcry."

Another posted: "I watched this last night.

"My heart goes out to them.

"So sorry you suffered. You should have been protected and the system failed you."

A third posted: "Amazing that a Netflix drama was made about rape and sexual abuse abuse of BOYS in a male orphanage.

"It may be heartrending, but please watch it and spread the word. We need more dramas like this telling men's stories."