Neil Fingleton paid a visit to East Durham College, in Peterlee, to discuss a new drama and acting project.

Neil, 29, who is 7ft 7.5ins and became the tallest man in Britain in 2007, has recently finished a role as the giant in Jack & The Beanstalk at the Lighthouse theatre, in Poole, Dorset.

The new project will allow Neil, who is from Gilesgate in Durham City, to pass on his experiences on stage and TV to students at the college.
He said: "Although I played professional basketball I've always had a love of acting. So when I retired from playing, acting was my next big ambition.

"But I am really looking forward to the prospect of giving something back and helping to inspire the new generation of acting talent.

"Hopefully I can get more young people in the North East involved in drama and the arts, helping them to have the belief they can make it."

Ian Prescott, principal and chief executive at the college, said: "The college is very excited about this new partnership.

"Neil has some fantastic experiences he can share with the students and he will also provide links with a number of high profile people in the business to provide sessions and inspiration for our students."

The new drama project will be staring in April.