Starstruck schoolchildren had the chance to experience some movie magic when Hollywood actor Dougray Scott paid a visit last week.

The 45-year-old star of Mission Impossible 2 and Enigma spent a morning persuading pupils at John Fisher School, Purley, to get into film on behalf of education charity Filmclub.

The actor said: “It’s inspirational and you see people from different parts of the world, to not to dissimilar to you as you perhaps thought.

“It can help break down prejudices and social barriers as well, and its an incredibly exciting event to go to the cinema and watch these wonderful stories unfold before your eyes.”

The event was part of Filmclub’s Close Encounters programme, which offers young people a chance to interact with members of the film community.

More information is available by calling 020 7288 4520 or visiting filmclub.org.