A film that asks big questions about destiny and fate was the winner at a film awards set up to find the great directors and producers of tomorrow.

The Guardian, produced by Borehamwood-based Alexander Gordon, 23, took home the trophy at the town’s first Junior Film Awards.

The film is about a chance encounter in a pub that changes the course of a man’s life, and co-producer Benjamin Enebi was delighted with its success.

He said: “Alexander and I have worked very hard on this project. We’re just beginning to show it at festivals, and it was a great honour to win this award in the town where such prestigious films as Indiana Jones and Star Wars were made.”

The event, held at the Ark Theatre in Thrift Farm Lane on Saturday, attracted an audience of more than 70 people, who watched seven films produced and directed by people under 25.

The runners up were Some Were Safe by David Dyer and Who Am I by Thomas Williamson.

Film historian Paul Welsh, who helped judge the awards, said the decision to choose The Guardian as the winner was unanimous.

He said: “The film really stood out in terms of the quality of the lighting, sound, editing and acting. It was of good enough standard to have been on television or in the cinema, and shows the real talent of those involved.

“The awards evening was very successful and I look forward to it becoming a regular thing.”

The awards were organised by David Burcombe of Tried and Trusted magazine, Tony Rice and film producer Jason Cook.

Music was provided by Ami Percival, Stargy and newcomers City People, who made their debut.

Mayor of Elstree and Boreahamwood Clive Butchins was among special guests, and chairman of Elstree Studios Councillor Morris Bright opened the event.

Cllr Bright said: “The festival is only in its early days but all the great film festivals such as Sundance and Cannes grew from a tiny kernel.

“The quality of entries showed the talent the town has, as well as giving a glimpse into the lives of young people in the area.

“These young people are the film directors and film producers of tomorrow and I’m very proud they come from Hertsmere.”

The evening was sponsored by local businesses including Elstree and Borehamwood and Hertsmere councils,  Jenny's Restaurant, The Village Barber, and Elstree Film Studios and raised £130 for the Borehamwood Foodbank.

Entries are now being accepted for the next Film awards evening, which will be held on June 28 at the Ark Theatre and is open to anyone over the age of 18.