DIVINE inspiration helped Bolton director Paul Blinkhorn get to the final of a national film competition.

And Paul, 35, was able to pitch his film to industry experts at the famous Pinewood Studios - home of the James Bond films.

The former Bolton Sixth Form College student, was one of just three finalists in The Pitch competition.which required entrants to submit a short film inspired by the Bible.

Paul’s film, ‘The End’ is about a man who is on the run and his only companion is a puppet with an attitude problem; but he can only run so far.

The fundamental theme of ‘The End’ is the need to talk about death and by using a puppet, Paul was able to introduce this often difficult to talk about topic.

Judges included singer /actress Toyah Willcox and actor /director Ray Panthaki of Colette and ITV-hit Marcella fame.

Luke Walton, director of the competition, said: “Paul was awarded a Highly Commended prize for his project. The story brilliantly engaged with important contemporary issue such as suicide and death and he showed incredible skill in responding to feedback, strengthening an already brilliant stories and deserves investment.”

Although naturally disappointed not to have won the top prize, Paul, who was an assistant director at The Octagon and the youth theatre leader of Bolton Little Theatre, is still determined to make the film.

“I’ve invested so much time and had so much input and support from others that I need to make this film now, but I will need to gain some funding from somewhere first.”