Classic Laurel and Hardy films are being screened across the country this week with the aim of attracting a whole new generation to the comedy of the timeless double act.

Timed to coincide with the 125th birthday of Stan Laurel, Showcase Cinemas will be showing a double bill of the vintage duo throughout June.

After first being seen together in The Lucky Dog back in 1921, Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy entertained audiences for more than 30 years.

The pair appeared in a total of 106 films together, originally thriving in the silent film era – with 32 of their films being without sound.

Throughout the 1970s, Laurel and Hardy short films were still regularly shown on BBC2 and the comedians they inspired are today household names.

Matt Lucas, John Cleese, Steve Martin, Steve Coogan and Stephen Fry are among the Laurel and Hardy devotees.

Comedian Ricky Gervais, whose work has been heavily influenced by the duo said: “Anything that helps preserve the legend of the greatest comedy team of all time for future generations is a good thing. I’m so glad they’re showing the glory of Laurel and Hardy in cinemas.”

A little known Kent link - the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway line to Dungeness was re-opened by Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy in 1947.

Two comedy classics starring the famous comedians will be screened, Sons of Desert and County Hospital.

Sons of Desert sees the pair planning to attend a convention of a fraternal group – the Sons of the Desert. However Ollie’s wife objects, leaving the pair to devise a foolproof plan.In County Hospital, Stan visits Ollie, who has a broken leg, in hospital.

Things take a turn for the worse though when Stan attempts to drive home, unaware that he has accidentally injected himself with a powerful sedative.

Classic Laurel and Hardy. Vine by @Stan_and_Ollie

The double-bill will be screened at Bluewater’s Showcase Cinema on Tuesday, June 16 at 7.30pm.

To find out more, or to book, visit www.laurelandhardyroadshow.co.uk or phone 0871 2201000.