Award-winning film director Ken Loach will show his latest film in Mirehouse today - just days after he picked up a Bafta.

The veteran filmmaker’s I, Daniel Blake scooped Outstanding British Film at Sunday's Baftas ceremony, and a special screening is set for Mirehouse Labour Club at 7pm this evening.

Steve Nicholson, vice-president of the club, said it was a "huge coup" for the estate.

Following the screening of the film, 80-year-old Mr Loach, who also directed Kes and Cathy Come Home, will hold a Q and A session for 120 ticket holders.

He said: "I'm looking forward to it immensely. The great privilege of making films is getting to talk to people."

Mr Loach is a renowned socialist and is visiting the area as the Copeland by-election approaches, with his screening organised by Momentum - the grassroots organisation which supports Jeremy Corbyn’s Labour Party.

I, Daniel Blake won the director his second Palme d'Or, the highest prize, at last year's Cannes Film Festival.

The film tells the tale of Daniel Blake, a 59-year-old joiner from Newcastle, and his friend, single mother Katie, as they battle with the benefits system.

Speaking about his Bafta win, Mr Loach said: "I think it's an honour for everyone connected with the film, but I am particularly pleased for everyone who told us their stories.

"Only 0.7 per cent of the population falsely claim benefits, most people just need help and secure jobs."

Mr Loach believes that Jeremy Corbyn's Labour leadership is an opportunity for change.

"The far right is on the march across Europe, the United States and here, people have suffered through austerity for years," he said.

On Copeland, he says most politicians aren't interested in the issues facing the area but backs Labour to tackle closures at the West Cumberland Hospital.

His films often depict the working classes, a group he says has transformed over his career.

"There has been a massive change," he said. "People tended to work together in factories, mines or on the docks. It was much more coherent, but attacks by Thatcher and continued by Blair mean that it's fragmented."

Steve said: "We were approached out of the blue to see if we'd be able to host the event and, of course, we said we'd be delighted to.

"It's a huge coup for the club, and for Mirehouse, to welcome a director of Ken Loach's calibre to town."