A LOCAL film-maker has had his talents recognised across the pond after his latest work won an award at an American film festival.

Steven J.R. Lawson entered his 10th film, Diseased Freaks, into the Best Shorts Festival in California – and the Prudhoe native came way with an award of recognition from the festival.

Steven felt his latest film was an improvement on his earlier work, and deserved to win an award.

He said: “I’ve raised the bar on the quality on this film in particular.

“I thought I’ve won awards like this before with less.

“I was confident, and it came through well. It was enjoyable though, it took my breath away.

“I thought I would try my luck, so when I finished the film I decided to enter – and I managed to make their deadline with one minute to spare.”

The film is set to come out on October 25 and will premiere at the Fuse Cinema in Prudhoe as part of the town’s Spook Fest.

Taking place for the first time this year, the event will celebrate all things spooky with outdoor disco, movies, food, free activities and prizes.

The post-apocalyptic horror has been filmed entirely in Prudhoe, and stars Richard Heslop of Ovingham Drama Group, Samantha Macbeth of Dragon Tale Theatre Group and Molly Page of Prudhoe Castle First School. All proceeds will be going to Prudhoe Youth Charities.