A RENOWNED producer and songwriter has joined forces with a North-East film company.

Ivor Novello winner Tony Waddington is the latest star to jump on board Give Them Wings, a film about the life of disabled North-East football fan Paul Hodgson.

The PIMM Productions film tells the story of Mr Hodgson’s battle with childhood meningitis, which left him unable to move or speak.

It was penned by the Darlington fan – known to fellow supporters as Flipper – and is being brought to the big screen by a team including award-winning director Sean Cronin and Holby City actor Bill Fellows.

Mr Waddington, who wrote hits for The Rubettes, Tom Jones and Petula Clark, will work as executive and creative producer and has written the title track to the film.

He said: “Give Them Wings' is an inspiration for all those who suffer adversity; it is an uplifting and well-crafted piece of entertainment for any cinema goer."

Mr Hodgson hopes Mr Waddington’s involvement will boost investment in the film, which is being part-funded through crowdfunding website GrowthFunders.

He said: “Bringing Tony Waddington on board is a huge boost for our effort.

“Alongside Sean, Tony demonstrates the belief industry experts have in the film and will not only work to ensure we make the best film possible, but also help to encourage investment through GrowthFunders.”

For more information, or to support the project, visit growthfunders.com.