BOURNEMOUTH actor/producer Stuart Brennan is champion of the world!

His latest movie, Risen, charts the life and times of Welsh world champion boxer Howard Winstone, and recently premiered at the Cardiff International Arena at an event supported by the World Boxing Council.

The film was a huge hit with the 2,000-strong crowd which gave a five-minute standing ovation.

And to top it off Stuart was invited onstage where the WBC President awarded him a world championship belt and the title of Honorary World Champion.

“I’m overwhelmed,” says Stuart.

“It’s been a long hard journey making this film and to be made a world champion is truly an amazing thing."

Stuart trained for five years for the role, including a stint in Bournemouth with local boxing hero Steve Bendell.

“Steve was a great help, he’s a brilliant trainer and an excellent boxer. He helped take me up a level with my training. I would recommend him as a trainer to anyone.”

The film is now off to Mexico for a premiere there next month and is expected to be released in cinemas in December.

Stuart is currently in China, then will visit Hollywood, Mexico and New York before hosting the British Horror Film Festival at the Pier Theatre in Bournemouth on October 30.

“These are busy days,” he says. “But I’m trying to help bring attention to Bournemouth as I’d like to shoot my next film project here. I love the travelling, but there’s nothing like coming home.”