Comedy legends Laurel and Hardy have been causing mayhem in the streets of Bradford as part of this weekend’s City of Film celebrations.

Lookalikes of the pair were at the Kirkgate Shopping Centre yesterday, posing for photographs with shoppers and handing out City of Film leaflets and badges.

They were also out and about in the city centre with their dustbin full of tricks amusing passers-by.

Catherine Riley, centre manager at the shopping centre, where the pair are due to return today[sat], said: “They have attracted quite a crowd here. They’ve helped put people in the mood for the weekend and it’s been good to see little ones laughing and appreciating them. They have a gentle humour that resonates with everybody.”

An animated installation has also been set up to illustrate behind-the-scenes on a film shoot while staff at The Perfume Shop, Boots, New Look and River Island have been dressing up as their favourite stars.

Another highlight of the City of Film, a free ‘pop-up’ cinema in Centenary Square, started yesterday.

Three films, FairyTale: A True Story, Billy Liar and Bollywood musical Om Shanti Om were to be shown again today from an empty shop unit between Markaz and Starbucks.

Patrick Dowson, 19, of Heaton, who was at yesterday’s screenings, said: “It’s a good idea and a good start to the weekend. The fact its free is really good as it makes it accessible to lots of people.”

Other events this weekend include a ‘People’s Cinema’ at Bradford Playhouse where amateur film-makers will have the chance to show their work.

A Roald Dahl family funday at Bradford Central Library and an Architecture and Cinema Symposium at the National Media Museum were also to take place today. Laurel and Hardy were due to be at the Kirkgate Centre from noon to 1pm and 2pm to 3pm today.