For one film-maker a trip to the cinema will never be the same again – not after experiencing the glamour of a red carpet premiere.

Joel Byron, 34, who runs his own production company, and his assistant director, Angelo Sofroniou, found themselves mingling with the stars last Thursday, when one of their films was awarded a royal premiere.

The film, which focuses on the work of the Prince’s Foundation for Children and the Arts, was shown ahead of the UK premiere of Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland in Leicester Square.

The two Twickenham film buffs got to see their work on the big screen and met the likes of Hollywood stars Johnny Depp, who plays the Mad Hatter, and Helena Bonham-Carter, who stars as the Queen of Hearts, at the same time.

The pair also got to share the red carpet with royalty as the Prince of Wales, who is president of the charity, and the Duchess of Cornwall attended.

Mr Byron said: ““It was absolutely fantastic – a really unique experience. I even got to shake Johnny Depp’s hand.”

The film, which showcases the foundation’s work across the UK, features footage of children getting involved in music, dance and art. It shows how the foundation provides access for disadvantaged young people to engage with the arts by getting groups like the Philharmonia Orchestra involved.

Mr Byron, who set up production company Big Plus Productions three years ago, said when the duo pitched for the contract to make the charity’s promotional video they were just starting out.

He said: “Back in 2008 we went for our first pitch (against five other agencies) to produce a film for the Prince’s Foundation for Children and the Arts.

"The other two companies that got to the final shortlist had about five years’ experience, and we were new, so we just asked them to give us a chance like they give the kids a chance.”

The proud film-maker also praised the children involved for their help throughout the filming, adding: “The way the kids reacted was fantastic – we didn’t really know what to expect and were a bit dubious if they would be scared of the camera but they were great.”