OSCAR-nominated film Lincoln is being premiered in Sunderland in recognition of the city's links with Washington DC.

Twentieth Century Fox Film Company approached the city council to offer a gala screening because of Sunderland's friendship agreement with the American capital.

Lincoln has been nominated for 12 Academy Awards and ten Baftas and is released in cinemas on Friday, January 25.

The film tells the story of President Lincoln’s tumultuous final months in office as he works to end the Civil War, unite the country and abolish slavery.

The special screening will take place at the city's Empire Cinema tomorrow, Thursday, January 24.

The invitation-only audience will include schools and local businesses that have built links with Washington DC through the friendship agreement.

Also attending are representatives of some of the US companies based in Sunderland and young people involved in the city library's Reading Activitist Group.

Deputy Leader and Washington councillor, Harry Trueman said: "We're absolutely delighted to have been offered the chance to host a gala screening of the film.

"It's not every day that you get Twentieth Century Fox Film Company knocking on your door so this is a real coup for the city and we're very honoured to have been approached by them.

"Sunderland is very proud of the unique historical connection it shares with Washington DC and values this very important relationship."