Comedy legends Laurel and Hardy will be strolling through the streets of Bradford next week to mark the start of City of Film.

Lookalikes of the pair will be handing out leaflets and badges in the city centre on Friday and Saturday to help celebrate Bradford’s film accolade.

The launch of City of Film will also see the Hollywood hills recreated in Centenary Square, with 32ft wide letters spelling ‘Bradford’.

Celebrations will officially start with a civic reception on Thursday to coincide with the start of Bradford International Film Festival.

Other events include screening opportunities at Bradford Playhouse, a ‘pop-up’ free cinema in an empty shop in Centenary Square and a family fun day at the National Media Museum.

Telegraph & Argus readers will also have the chance to walk the red carpet at the city’s first People’s Premiere. Peg Alexander, City of Film director, said: “We want everybody in Bradford to try to do something film related to celebrate being in the world’s first City of Film.”

EVENTS NEXT SATURDAY

* Roald Dahl family fun day at Bradford Central Library.

* Architecture and cinema symposium at the National Media Museum.

* Animated installation in the Kirkgate Centre.

* Staff at The Perfume Shop, Boots, New Look and River Island dress up as movie stars.

* City of Film cookery class at Zouk Tea Bar.

* Discounts at Omar Khan’s in Little Horton Lane.