Hanks graces London film premiere

Tom Hanks became an Aston Villa fan at the film gala

Oscar-winning actor Tom Hanks has attended the London premiere of his latest film, Charlie Wilson's War.

The 51-year-old star, who plays Wilson, a politician who secretly helped Afghan rebels during the Soviet occupation, confessed to being an Aston Villa fan.

He wore the club's scarf during his tour of the red carpet in Leicester Square, saying he "likes the team".

The film, which opens in the UK on Friday, has received five nominations at the strike-hit Golden Globes.

Played down

Julia Roberts, who also has a starring role in the film, is also being touted for a second Oscar for her role as socialite Joanne Herring.

The actress, who makes her first major screen appearance since taking time off to look after her family three years ago, was unable to attend the premiere because she is working on another project.

Hanks was also asked about the US Presidential election and said: "You guys have all the luck in the UK. You get yours over and done with so quickly - we've got several more months to go."

The actor, best known for his award-winning roles in Philadelphia and Forrest Gump, recently played down the chances of his latest film becoming a success.

He said: "We might be hounded out of town by a mob with torches and pitchforks and chased into a windmill and burnt to death.

"Or we might get a parade down Hollywood Boulevard. You never know what's going to happen."