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WATCH: Hero's welcome as Sir Lenny returns to Dudley for screening

Sir Lenny Henry received a rapturous welcome on his red carpet return to Dudley tonight.

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The comedian and actor was at the town's Showcase Cinema for a special screening of his newest drama Danny and the Human Zoo.

Sir Lenny, dressed in a black suit, white shirt, black tie and black pumps was welcomed to cheers and shouts of 'Lenny' as he stepped out of his car.

The star showed off some dance moves then joked with the crowd as he walked up the red carpet.

He warned there would be 'no supermodels' accompanying him to the screening, before launching into a session of obligatory selfies.

As he entered the cinema the star - who was clearly loving the moment - waved goodbye to his adoring crowds outside, who responded in kind.

Friends and family of Sir Lenny were in the audience for the gala showing.

Sir Lenny Henry with actor Cherrelle Skeete, left, director Destiny Ekaragha and actor Kascion Franklin

Half of the lucky cinema goers were from the area, after the BBC said 50 per cent of the available tickets would go to people with a Dudley postcode.

Among those who queued outside was Shirley Lloyd from West Bromwich, who was accompanied by her niece Aminah StJuste, 32.

The 55-year-old teacher, said: "I've followed Lenny throughout his career and I've really loved what he's done over the years.

"I'm here to support a local lad who was told at college he would never amount to anything - but he has. He's a great role model."

The drama, written by the comedian, is a fictionalised version of his upbringing and was filmed at sites across Dudley.

Speaking ahead of the screening, the popular funnyman said he had been impressed with Dudley's recent rejuvenation.

"There's been a lot of work on buildings in the town centre and it feels like Dudley is coming back up."

Another couple waiting in the crowd for Sir Lenny were Nigel and Karen Dutton from Willenhall.

Mr Dutton, 57, said: "We're obviously very pleased to have got tickets for a fairly exclusive local event.

"Lenny always makes us laugh and seems to be a very down to earth person for a megastar."

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