A Bolton School old boy who has directed Louis Theroux took time out to inspire the next generation.

Freelance documentary maker Jonny Ashton spoke to sixth form students at Bolton School boys' division about his work which includes working with Louis Theroux and Will Young, as well as making a documentary on alcohol addiction for Channel 4.

He has also  directed 24 Hours in Police Custody, Murder 24/7, Ambulance, Hospital, Hunted and The Mighty Redcar.

The filmmaker, who left the school in 2005, spoke to the students about his role and believing that having a curiosity about people’s lives is essential in documentary work.

The Bolton News: Jonny Ashton

Jonny explained how a documentary director oversees everything that appears on the screen and even confided in the students that when he makes films, he often does not know what the end is going to be and, even if he does, it can change anyway.

He said: “I had a great time at Bolton and feel fortunate for the opportunities we were given at school.

“I've got particularly fond memories of being involved in school plays, and I've no doubt that this played a huge role in nurturing creativity and a passion for story-telling.”

Reflecting on his own school days, Jonny informed the students that when he was their age, he did not know that he wanted to make documentaries.

He recalled how he had wanted to be an actor and how he had joined the national youth theatre and taken part in school plays.

A spokesman for Bolton School said: “At university, he studied Psychology – the science of studying people and what they do.

“He told how, upon graduation, he went on to drama school and revealed how the short films that he started making were initially a vehicle to allow him to act.

“Gradually, however, he said he fell in love with being on the other side of the camera and the craft of filming. Initially he had thought he might produce comedy and he had started out as a runner.

“He spoke about always wanting to be the best that you can be, about working hard, learning as you go and listening to your instincts about what is going to make you happy.”