ABERYSTWYTH’S Hollywood actor Taron Egerton stars in a film described as the UK’s answer to Cool Runnings.

Former Ysgol Penglais pupil Taron stars in Eddie The Eagle based on the life of unlikely British ski-jumper Michael “Eddie” Edwards.

He appears alongside Hollywood superstar Hugh Jackman as his reluctant, heavy-drinking fictional coach.

Eddie the Eagle Edwards soared to fame when he finished last at the Calgary Winter Olympics in 1988 - his two combined jumps in the normal hill competition being shorter than a single jump by every other competitor.

Taron, who had made his name in the hit spy movie Kingsman alongside Samuel L Jackson and Colin Firth, said he wanted “to do something that was the antithesis of an action hero, and show another side to myself”.

The 26-year-old learnt to ski in Germany, weeks before filming started.

“That was scary enough, let alone jumping,” he said.

“I’ve never been a terribly gifted athlete.

“I was never that kid in school – I was more arty. But I was enthusiastic... like Eddie.”

Mr Edwards said he was excited about the impact the film could have on British ski-jumping.

“I’m hoping kids will be inspired by the film and realise it was my dream to get to the Olympics - and it was a dream that can come true,” he said.

“It would be a wonderful legacy to leave if the film could inspire one young British athlete to take up the sport and go on to become an Eddie the Eagle of the future.”

A special charity screening of Eddie The Eagle will be held at Aberystwyth Arts Centre on Friday, 1 April followed by a Q&A session with Taron.

All funds raised will go towards the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

Eddie the Eagle (PG) will be released on cinemas on that day.