FILM legend Edgar Wright has been named the first ever patron of the Mowlem Theatre charity.

The director, screenwriter and producer – whose credits include the seminal ‘Cornetto Trilogy’ of Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz and The World’s End – has been named patron of the Mowlem Institute Charity.

Edgar was born and raised in Swanage before moving to Wells, in Somerset, and the Mowlem was among destinations for him and his brother Oscar during a return to the town last summer.

“I was born and raised in Dorset and lived in Swanage until I was seven,” the director said. “The Mowlem was one of the first cinemas I ever attended, and it was partly responsible for a film fandom that continues to this day.”

He added: “Standing in the auditorium again was a very pleasant experience, and I hope to be down again soon. I am proud to be a patron – I’m a film director now but I never stopped being a film-goer. Keep up the great work.”