Delight as Portsmouth-taught filmmaker Gavin Irvine scoops award at the Germany International Film FestivalÂ

Gavin Irvine, who was taught at the University of Portsmouth by lecturer Damian Toal, won the award for Best Short Film at the Germany International Film Festival. 

The fixture held in Munich concluded on September 6 and added to the list of honours racked up by Mr Irvine's touring short 2:40 to London. 

The filmmaker, in his 40s, claims the production was made possible thanks to the promotional and financial contribution of Portsmouth pal Richard Measey. 

And while only a trailer is available for the public to view, the film '“ an offbeat 14-minute comedy about a brainwashed man's journey to the capital '“ is doing the rounds at festivals the world over. 

Before winning in Germany, it already won Best Short Film and Best Director in Portugal in 2017, the Special Jury Award in Canada this year, the Best Short Film Award at Brazil International Film Festival and was nominated for honours in Prague and Portobello, in London.

Mr Irvine said the festival was '˜extremely well-organised' and had a '˜great vibe'. 

He added: '˜There were 600 entries into the festival, so for 2:40 to London to actually go on and win Best Short Film was a very special moment for me indeed.'

Mr Irvine, who lives in Camden, is due to visit film students at the University of Portsmouth later this year.