N-Acryloyl-2-(phenylselenomethyl)-tetrahydro-1, 3-oxazine 1 generates a carbon-centred radical in the presence of tri-n-butyltin hydride and A1BN. This radical underwent diastereoselective 5-exo-trig cyclisation leading to a mixture of five-membered lactams 2a and 2b (de 68%). Chromatographic separation of the diastereomers and elimination of the chiral auxiliary provided enantiopure (R)-3-methylpyrrolidine in good chemical yield.