Zeta Jones' home film patron role

Catherine Zeta Jones has accepted the role of patron at the film festival

Hollywood Catherine Zeta Jones is keeping her links with her Welsh home city with her acceptance of the role of a film festival patron.

She said she was "proud" to be associated with the Swansea Life Film Festival, which starts this month.

Festival director Arwel Richards said the actress's support was a "huge honour" for the festival.

Independent films will be screened, for free, at the Dylan Thomas Centre from 31 May until 7 June.

Speaking from Bermuda where she has a home, Zeta Jones said: "I am proud to be part of the Swansea Life Film Festival.

"It provides a great opportunity for the city and a showcase for local talent.

"I feel the possibilities are endless as it gives local talent both in front and behind the camera the chance to express themselves creatively.

"The festival also, more importantly, gives local talent the opportunity to show their work in an International arena. It's a great boost for the city and everyone who lives here," she said.

Mr Richards said: "To gain the support of Catherine Zeta Jones is a huge honour for the film festival and further propels us up the ladder of 'must attend' events on the film festival calendar."

To have the endorsement of celebrities from the world of film adds credibility to what I and my colleagues are trying to do Richard Lloyd, festival executive chairman

The festival which started in 2006 features premieres as well as workshops and a Gala Awards Banquet ceremony at the city's Dragon Hotel, on 7 June.

Awards will be given out in categories such as Best Short Film, Best Feature Film and Avant Garde film

The Dylan Thomas Award for Original Screenplay will also be announced on the gala night.

Richard Lloyd, the festival's executive chairman, said: "Catherine's message sums the whole thing up perfectly.

"The festival appreciates her support very much.

"To have the endorsement of celebrities from the world of film adds credibility to what I and my colleagues are trying to do and further endorses the pride that everyone in Swansea should feel bearing mind that the festival is the biggest screening event in the UK, " he said.

"Two hundred and sixty seven independent film makers will be hoping that the people of the Swansea Bay region will find the time to enjoy free screenings at the Dylan Thomas Centre between 31 May and 7 June."

The Hollywood star is also a patron of the Noah's Ark Appeal, which was set up to raise funds for the Welsh children's hospital.

She has a similar role at the Longfields Day Centre in West Cross, Swansea which cares for disabled adults.