The notion of the post-war illegal abortion doesn't tend to conjure up a picture of sanitised surroundings and the humanitarian obligation of those involved.

More akin to the personality of the "Childcatcher", it has always been the role of the misogynist-butcher, opportunist or local ne'er do well.

Enter Vera Drake, loving mother of two, wife, homemaker and sincerely selfless 1950s woman.

As the film opens we witness Vera visiting various locals who, in one way or another, have fallen upon hard times.

Amidst the abundance of "luverly cups o'tea" and genuine sympathy, it becomes apparent that Vera has a sideline.

In-between her various cleaning jobs in wealthy homes, she helps out young women who have "gotten themselves into trouble".

Unbeknownst to her family, and without accepting payment, she has over the years performed a procedure to end unwanted pregnancies for a number of women, ranging from the very young to the very poor, and like everything else she does, she goes about it reassuringly, competently and soothingly.

Events conspire against Vera, and what unfolds is a sensitive and powerful human drama which results in the disintegration of her world.

Mike Leigh is true to form and by setting the scene in a time when society buried its secrets; the effects of a contentious issue, such as abortion, are further heightened.

Thankfully he never makes the mistake of moralising or entering into debate regarding the issue, leaving it up to the audience to decide whether Vera has acted rightly or wrongly.

Imelda Staunton's amazing performance as Vera, for which she deservedly won the Venice Film Festival's Best Actress award, is a display of the perennially cheery.

She brings a caring innocence and humour to the role without becoming a caricature.

Previous Mike Leigh collaborators, such as Jim Broadbent, are apparent throughout and serve to make this a powerfully moving film that is unforgettable and not to be missed.

Vickie Juett