The man who has helped bring the likes of animated hero Buzz Lightyear to life is heading to Cumbria.

In a coup for the county, award-winning animator Michal Makarewicz (CORR) is heading to Carlisle to lead his first UK masterclasses.

Directing animator at the world-famous Pixar Animation Studios, Michal's awards including an industry Annie for his work on Ratatouille.

He has also been involved in the production of a host of other family favourites including Toy Story 3, Cars, Up, Brave, The Incredibles, Wall-E and Inside Out.

He can also add Finding Dory, last summer's hit movie, to his impressive portfolio.

Michal will be inspiring students and others during an exclusive three-day visit at the end of January.

He will be sharing tricks of the trade at a two-day 3D character animation masterclass at the University of Cumbria in Carlisle on the weekend of January 28-29.

He will then delivering a lecture about his life on Monday, January 30, which will include a live demonstration.

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

"The workshop will be hugely popular as he’s worked on some of the best known animation movies of all time."

Crofton-based animation outfit Cloudscape Studios are presenting the weekend in conjunction with the university and Creative Skillset.

It is hoped his visit will support the growth of the animation industry in the north west.

Geared toward students and experienced animators alike, the two-day masterclass will cover a range of specialist areas.

More details can be found at https://makarewicz-masterclass.eventbrite.co.uk.

Tickets for the public lecture on the evening of January 30 are priced £26. Details can be found at https://makarewicz-lecture.eventbrite.co.uk.

* A showreel of Michal Makarewicz's work can be viewed at https://vimeo.com/168857358.