A THEATRICAL family are still on a high from getting film star treatment in France after winning a competition.

Derek Smith and sons Jamie, 12, and Luke, ten, of Chester-le-Street, were greeted at Disneyland Paris like Hollywood legends.

The amateur dramatics enthusiasts had won a national competition to remake a scene from the Disney movie Haunted Mansion.

They were welcomed at the airport in Paris by a chaperone and whisked across the French capital by limousine.

They enjoyed red carpet treatment at their hotel and were met by a throng of photographers, cheering fans and Mickey and Minnie Mouse.

Mr Smith said: "It was like being at the Oscars. It was an unbelievable feeling and great for the kids."

The family stayed in a luxury suite at the Newport Bay Hotel within the complex with views overlooking the Disneyland Lake.

During their five-day stay the family were pampered by Disney staff while theatrical experts gave them expert advice on how to make the most of their performance.

They even received some coaching tips from French film star Gerard Depardieu who told them how to handle their new found stardom.

Mr Smith said: "The whole thing was a fantastic experience and something we will never forget. It means even more to us being involved with the local theatres."

As well as remaking a scene from the film, the Smiths were followed by camera crews who documented their encounters.

The film crews did the same to families from France, Germany and Spain and as an added twist Disney is pitting the families against each other on the internet.

Nobody knows what the winner will get but the competition went online on Tuesday and one lucky voter will get a free holiday for four people at Disneyland Paris.

To vote for the Smiths log on to www.needmagic.co.uk