A DREAM came true for a film club founder when one of his idols was the special guest at an event in Darlington this week.

Flash Gordon star Sam J Jones – the latest special guest to appear at Darlington Film Club – entertained a full house at the Forum Music Centre on Monday night.

The lively crowd were treated to a screening of the 1980 cult movie based on the adventures of the comic-strip hero, before Jones took to the stage for a question and answer session.

The Northern Echo:

The American actor spent an hour fielding questions from the audience and host James Watson, who has been a fan of the film since he was a child.

Mr Watson said: “The Q&A kept us all captivated. His stories and philosophy on life and work in Hollywood was entrancing.

“A true gentleman who took his time with everyone he met and thoroughly enjoyed his time at the fantastic Forum venue.

“I’m still pinching myself that this has happened.”

* The club's next special guests will be the two original members of British soul group The Real Thing, who will appear at The Forum following the screening of a new documentary about the band on Sunday, January 19. For more details, visit Darlington Film Club's Facebook page.