Hedley Le Maistre (actor Clive Pearce) arrives at Cineworld in a stretched limousine for his film showing (00847318)

FOR a simple Grey Belly* who probably thought the West End was just beyond Vinchelez, Hedley Le Maistre seemed a comfortable star as he walked down the red carpet at the première of his latest film on Saturday night.

Emerging from a stretched limo at the Waterfront, flanked by steely-eyed security guards, the moustachioed St Ouennais warmly greeted the gathered ensemble and handed out Jersey Royals, which he had individually signed – many, no doubt, already exacting a high price on eBay.

Some youngsters outside Cineworld – perhaps waiting for the latest Twilight saga or about to indulge at KFC – were ensnared by the commotion. ‘Who is this Hedley?’ one was heard to ask. ‘He’s Jersey’s answer to Orlando Bloom,’ came a swift reply.’

More than satisfied, tomorrow’s future ran off to get her mates. After walking down all 12-feet of the tapis rouge, Hedley posed for photos before the eager five-man paparazzi and then led his fans into the cinema for the third in the Hedley trilogy, Robinson Crapaud.

* Gris Ventre (Grey Belly) – nickname for inhabitants of St Ouen.