‘Outstanding’ director Danny Boyle gets BFI award

Danny Boyle is to be given the British Film Institute's highest accolade at this year's London Film Festival awards.

The Slumdog Millionaire director will be presented with the BFI Fellowship for his "outstanding contribution to film culture".

Boyle said: "A significant helping of humility is called for in the face of this honour and that is not difficult considering those awarded it before.

"I am shocked, flattered and delighted to receive the Fellowship on behalf of everyone who has helped me make the films, and on behalf of all runts in every litter."

He is also in the running to pick up the best film award for his new feature 127 Hours. Mike Leigh's Another Year is also shortlisted.

Comedian Richard Ayoade — star of Channel 4 sitcom The IT Crowd — has been shortlisted for best British newcomer and the Sutherland Award for the most original debut for his film Submarine.

The 54th BFI London Film Festival runs from October 13-28.