Budding animators and experienced designers alike came from around the world to enjoy a masterclass from one of the industry's best.

Animation specialist Michal Makarewicz is an Annie award winner - for his work on Ratatouille - as well as being among the lead animators at the world-famous Pixar Animation Studios.

The company is responsible for some of the biggest children's films of the past two decades from Toy Story to The Incredibles, and Brave to Inside Out.

Michal's exclusive visit was therefore a major draw for people from all over the UK - from Scotland to the south coast of England - to attend a two-day masterclass by the expert.

In fact Michal's appeal is so great, at least one delegate travelled from America to see him at work.

Attendees were able to watch Michal create work from scratch, building on it showcasing his approach to animation.

Speaking before the class he said: "This class is a compressed peek into everything I have learned for the last 14 years at Pixar."

Animators Cloudscape Studios, based in Crofton, near Carlisle, presented the weekend at the University of Cumbria, supported by Creative Skillset - a support network for creative industries.

Louise Kneath-Gilbertson, founder and managing director of Cloudscape, said: "It was a fantastic weekend.

"The feedback was wonderful and it was great to be able to bring someone like Michal to Carlisle and support the industry."

The two day seminar discussed 3D animation from a variety of artistic perspectives, focusing on a layered approach to animation.

The animator also found time to hold another event on Monday evening, when the lucky audience members heard Michal talk about his career so far. He also staged a live demonstration of his craft.

He offered budding animators advice on getting started, urging them to take their time.

"I sometimes see students tackling a bouncing ball, and then within the same semester starting to do acting shots and a walk cycle. I think this is too much," Michal said.

"Learn the basics extremely well, before moving on. Everything is based on those fundamentals."

Michal's presence was a major coup for the county, and was part of a drive to help support the growth of the animation industry in the north west.

University vice chancellor Professor Julie Mennell said: "It’s amazing to be able to bring someone of Michal’s ability to Carlisle."

Those behind the event are now optimistic it might entice other animators to come to Cumbria.