ACTOR Marty Docherty was given a special send-off as he left Glasgow for the Hollywood red carpet.

The Castlemilk performer was delighted when he landed the role of Tom Hanks' brother in the big-budget movie Cloud Atlas.

Scenes from the film were shot in Glasgow last year and Marty spent days in Berlin working alongside a cast including Halle Berry, Hugh Grant and Susan Sarandon.

But he feared he would miss his chance on the red carpet premiere next week because he could not fund the trip to Los Angeles.

Marty, 38, was persuaded by pals to ask Glasgow Lord Provost Sadie Docherty for help and she agreed to highlight his plight, as revealed earlier this week by the Evening Times.

The effort covered the cost of the flights and accommodation.

As a thank-you, Marty went to George Square before boarding his flight to thank the Lord Provost and the people of Glasgow.

Mrs Docherty said: "I am delighted to have helped raise awareness of Marty's quest."

Marty, who will be in Hollywood for nine days, said he was delighted to be able to make the trip.

vivienne.nicoll @eveningtimes.co.uk