THE tributes have been flowing in to mark the Hollywood success of Kent film maker Andrea Arnold.

Andrea, from Dartford, will be bringing home an Oscar when she returns from the States following her Sunday night triumph.

The former Dartford schoolgirl, who was brought up and educated on Fleet Estate, took the honours in the Short Film (Live Action) category for her film Wasp.

As she stood on stage staring into the star-studded crowd, she said: “It’s a long way from Dartford. This is truly overwhelming.”

It was a glittering night to remember as she took the long, red carpet walk into the Los Angeles Kodak Theatre. There to mingle with her were mega stars of the big screen, including Johnny Depp, Clint Eastwood, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Kate Winslet.

Acclaim from on high and from her ex-school chums has been pouring in as news of Andrea’s success at the Oscars went round the town.

Dr Howard Stoate, the town’s MP, said: “It’s a huge success for Andrea and her film, and also for Dartford. What she’s pulled off will be inspirational to many others here.

“She is a real talent, and I hope her career goes from strength to strength in the future. Her strong interest in Dartford is very evident and we should all be proud of her.”

FULL STORY IN THIS WEEK'S DARTFORD MESSENGER