STAN Laurel fans are being given another glimpse into his showbiz life with the release of a new film.

The later life of the comedian and film star, who grew up in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, will be the basis of the dramatic film Stan and Ollie.

Based on the true story of Hollywood’s “greatest comedy double act”, Laurel and Hardy, the drama follows the duo’s “farewell” tour of Britain and Ireland in 1953.

Laurel is played by Steve Coogan while John C Reilly portrays Hardy.

The Entertainment One title is expected to hit cinema next January, with a trailer being released in the last few days.

The film will premiere at the 62nd BFI London Film Festival in October where it has been chosen as American Express’s closing night gala film.

It is described as a “heart-warming story of what would become the pair’s triumphant farewell tour”.

“With their golden era long behind them, the pair embarks on a variety hall tour of Britain and Ireland,” it said.

“Despite the pressures of a hectic schedule, and with the support of their wives Lucille (Shirley Henderson) and Ida (Nina Arianda) – a formidable double act in their own right – the pair’s love of performing, as well as for each other, endures as they secure their place in the hearts of their adoring public.”

Film consultant and radio presenter, Ross Owen, created the Laural and Hardy Forum in 2005 and was one of the first to share the trailer.

He stressed the film was not a biopic but the “untold story of their lives” and he heartily approved of it.

“My mission is to keep the name of Laurel and Hardy alive in any way I can.”

He added: “It is bringing back a lot of memories for people and the reception to the trailer has been incredible. It’s a love story about their relationship and a difficult story to tell.”

Former manager of Bishop Auckland Town Hall and grand vizier of the Hogwild Tent of the Sons of the Desert - the official worldwide Laurel and Hardy Appreciation Society - Gillian Wales, said the duo's comedy was "timeless" and the fact another film was being made was testament to the pair.

To view the trailer visit youtube.com/watch?v=YUiT52G8JXc