A FILM which took a North-East woman nine years to make will be premiered in front of its star - world famous naturalist David Bellamy.

When Dr Bellamy decided to write a film about mushrooms he looked to the North-East for someone to get his work on the big screen.

The feature called Fungus Bellamyus, which is presented by Dr Bellamy, was made by Sandra Hill who runs the Green Machine Animation Studios, in Middlesbrough.

The 20-minute film, which took Sandra nine years to complete, combines animation and live links presented by the naturalist.

It is intended to be both educational and fun, and includes a soundtrack composted by Stewart Grey, of the Tees Valley Youth Orchestra.

Sandra is hoping the star of the film will be the guest of honour at a special party being held on Teesside next month.

She said: "The wrap party is for the many people who worked on the film, including 35 young musicians who played the soundtrack music, technicians and others.

"David says that, despite the many demands on his time, he hopes to make both the party and the London premiere (later in the year)."

The wrap party is taking place at the Springs Club in Stockton.