RESIDENTS hope to be involved in another fine mess when the spirits of two comedy legends are revived for a major film.

Worthing is being considered for a starring role in a new BBC Film Stan and Ollie featuring John C Reilly and Ovingdean’s very own Steve Coogan.

Worthing Lido manager Martin Barrett confirmed the seafront attraction was in discussions with producers about featuring in the major movie of the world’s most famous comedy duo Laurel and Hardy.

The film is currently in pre-production and is scheduled to appear on the big screen at cinemas around the country next year.

The movie will focus on the comedy duo’s attempt to reignite their film careers as they embark on what becomes their swan song - a gruelling theatre tour of post-war Britain.

Mr Barrett said: “It would be great to be chosen, we are looking forward to being part of it, it’s a very high profile film, its’ very exciting.

“The lido was used for a film opening about five years ago called Sea Monsters but that was quite low budget compared to this one.

“They are after something with the right look and the bandstand would be the main part of the scene.”

Worthing mayor Sean McDonald is a member of the Worthing branch of the Laurel and Hardy Appreciation Society and raised £1,000 for his charities with a screening of their films on Worthing Pier attended by comedy actor Jeffrey Holland in November.

He said: “When I became mayor I was sent a couple of pictures from the Laurel and Hardy museum in America which hang in the mayor’s parlour.

“I get six-year-olds coming into the parlour and they say ‘oh it’s Laurel and Hardy’.

“Their sort of humour is timeless, when I was a kid I loved the slapstick but when you get older you appreciate the dialogue.

“It would be great if it happens, I really hope that comes to fruition.”

A council spokesman said: “Our town has a fine heritage when it comes to film: from hosting some of the first moving pictures on the pier in the late 19th Century through to providing locations for more contemporary shows such as Cuffs, Bargain Hunt and Don’t Tell The Bride.

“The council is currently dealing with a number of applications for filming in Worthing. These are confidential until such time as arrangements are confirmed with applicants and other partners and then put into the public domain.”