THE Courtyard is one of just 16 venues across the country to be screening films from the French Film Festival UK.

Now in its 23rd year, the French Film Festival UK is an annual showcase of the best of francophone cinema, which takes place in leading independent cinemas around the UK, including this year for the first time at The Courtyard.

Films include charming French comedy Une Famille à Louer (Family to Rent, 12A) (Saturday, December 5, 8.15pm) about a shy and rather introverted, 40-something who comes to the conclusion that what he needs is a family! Alongside this event, The Courtyard have teamed up with local wine specialists Nothing But the Grape to offer free wine and cheese tasting from 7pm when booking to see the film.

The beautiful and absolutely riveting true story Vie Sauvage (Wild Life, 15) (Sunday, December 6, 7.15pm) is a tale of a father’s reckless but all-consuming love, while Trois Souvenirs De Ma Jeunesse (My Golden Days, 12A) (Monday, December 7, 8.15pm) is a fresh, richly individual memoir of youthful adventure, friendships, and formative first love that delighted Cannes audiences.

Jérôme Bonnell's À Trois On Y Va (All About Them, 15) (Wednesday, December 9, 6pm) tells another tale of young love in a delicate love triangle supported by brilliant upcoming french actors, Anaïs Demoustier and Félix Moati.

Richard Mowe, festival director and co-founder, said: “We are very happy to work with Hereford's Courtyard for the first time and to be able to share highlights of a diverse and exciting programme. The French industry remains buoyant with more ticket sales now generated outside France than at home while new markets such as China give it a huge boost. French cinema is its own best ambassador. The selection this year is testimony to its health and diversity. Bon festival! to everyone.”

Films cost £6.80 (£5.80 concessions), but book all four films for just £20. For more information or to book tickets, call the box office on 01432 340555