Actor Colin Farrell has become a patron for the Irish Film Festival London.

The Golden Globe-winning star joins Room director Lenny Abrahamson and esteemed casting director Ros Hubbard as patrons of the festival.

In a statement, the 42-year-old actor said: "I am delighted to support the Irish Film Festival London and the great work that they do to champion Irish filmmakers and cinematic talent in the UK.

"They give Irish talent the crucial opportunity to be seen on screen in one of the film industry’s most important cities, and I am proud to be a part of it."

Kelly O’Connor, Founder and Programming Director at Irish Film London added: "Colin is such a warmly welcomed addition to our Irish Film London family. He has inspired a generation of Irish actors who are currently astonishing film audiences across the globe.

"His rise to Hollywood stardom, string of career successes and magnetic charisma have made him one of Ireland’s biggest icons. He is the perfect symbol of the best of the Irish abroad; hard working, discerning and still full of Irish charm!"

Irish Film London, which is now in its eighth year, supports the promotion of Irish film and animation across the UK.

This year's festival will take place from November 21-25 at the Regent Street Cinema.

To celebrate Farrell's patronage, Irish Film London is presenting the Colin Farrell Fest: Deadly Double Bill of In Bruges and Seven Psychopaths, accompanied by a Q&A with Ros Hubbard, who first discovered the young Farrell in Dublin in 1998. The event takes place on Thursday September 20.