Gareth gets to greet Braveheart star Mel Gibson

Hollywood star Mel Gibson visited Trim at the weekend and a Mullingar man was first in line to meet the acting legend.

The Australian movie star has strong midlands connections, as his mother is from neighbouring Longford.

He was in the country to mark 30 years since Braveheart was filmed in Ireland. His Trim appearance was part of the King John Summer Prom festival, and proceeds raised were for the Irish Equity Support Fund. Gibson posed for selfies and signed posters for the fans who had travelled from all over Ireland to get a chance to meet the Oscar-winning actor and director.

Gareth Hayes from Mullingar was first in the queue and met his icon, in what was a special moment for him, at Trim Castle Hotel on Saturday morning.

Mr Gibson and Gareth chatted openly and Gareth got his photographs and swords signed by the star.

Gareth was accompanied by Stephen Molloy and Marie Hayes (both Mullingar).