A writer and film producer from Darlington will be appearing on ITV's This Morning this week to talk about his film, Give Them Wings.
The premiere is taking place this Thursday, July 28 at Vue Cinema in Leicester Square.
Paul Hodgson, however, is saddened to be unable to attend the London premiere of the film based on his life.
The film, starring Toyah Willcox and newcomer Daniel Watson, won Best British Film at the London Independent Film Awards last year.
Read more: Darlington film premieres at town's Vue Cinema ahead of Leicester Square showing
Give Them Wings was directed by Sean Cronin and is based on the life of a Darlington FC fan, Paul Hodgson, who became disabled following childhood meningitis.
Paul was diagnosed with childhood meningitis at ten months old and his parents were told he would never move or speak. The film, set in 1989, tells the story of Paul's journey to self-acceptance.
As Paul is disabled and therefore has a lowered immune system, he has been advised not to travel to London due to concerns over Covid cases rising.
Paul said: “Unfortunately, due to the recent rise in Covid numbers and me having a low immune system, I’ve been advised not to travel to London for this premiere. I’m gutted with this news, particularly as I was really looking forward to going. The reason for this is along with my business partner and lifelong friend Ian Carter; I’ve been working on this project for over twenty years. However, I do need to put my health first.
“I have tackled so many issues in my life and you kind of build up a resistance to disappointment – but this hurts. Knowing many people are heading into London to be a part of such a special premier evening makes it feel even more painful I take heart from the fact however that Ian will be representing me on the night.”
Read more: Toyah Willcox stars in film about disabled Quakers' fan to premiere in Darlington
Filming locations in Darlington included the bar and grounds of Darlington Football Club and The Foresters Arms in Coatham Mundeville.
County Durham was also showcased in the film. Much of the interior scenes were shot in a house in Bishop Auckland that had not been decorated since the 1980s.
Paul added: “I am so thrilled that the premiere in Darlington at the weekend was sold out and that I was able to attend, the positive feedback and fabulous reviews continue to pour in from around the UK and beyond. I was masked up at the Darlington premiere and apart from when photographs were taken, and watched the film with my wife Jennifer separated from everyone.
“I was extremely worried about attending this event and precautions were put in place to keep me safe. Unfortunately, due to having to travel, and the continuing rise in Covid cases, going to London on Thursday would be a risk too far. I have to go with what my Dr is telling me and I will have to run with the best advice.
“There are so many other people facing much great challenges in life right now across the world and I have to be grateful for the wonderful things that have happened for me recently re the film and the unbelievable feedback that continues to arrive my way on every level.”
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