The stars come out to play for Film Festival Gala Night!

The festival, which is organised by The White Bus on behalf of Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, runs until Monday 2nd May and is already the biggest of its kind in Essex .

This year it will focus on the British independent scene, with nine new British films and documentaries being screened.

Thursday's Gala celebration is being staged to mark the 30th anniversary of the classic British gangster movie The Long Good Friday.

Members of the cast will be attending the Gala, including former Eastenders actress Gillian Taylforth and Pirates of the Caribbean star Kevin McNally.

Paul Barber of Only Fools and Horses and Full Monty fame, Brush Strokes star Karl Howman and P.H.Moriarty, who played Harry the Hatchet in Lock, Stock will also be present.

Other honoured guests include the film's producer Barry Hanson, scriptwriter Barrie Keeffe and the festival's newly appointed patron, movie legend Ray Winstone, who will host the evening.

A limited number of tickets are still available for the black tie Gala Night priced at £13, and can be obtained from the Cliffs Pavilion Box Office on 01702-351135,

The main festival closes, over 50 films and events later, on Monday 2nd May with an exclusive Gala preview of the comedy drama Being Sold http://www.beingsoldthemovie.com/

In between festival goers can enjoy the very best in cutting edge British independent cinema, World cinema, documentaries, classics, children's films and much more.

The Festival Fringe runs from Tuesday 26th April to Wednesday 4th May at venues around the town. For full of the festival programme visit http://www.southendfilmfestival.com/

Most tickets are priced at a very modest £3 and some events are free, so you're bound to find something to enjoy.