DUDLEY screenwriter Bobby Lee Darby is living his dream having written his way to Hollywood success.

The 30-year-old was determined to pursue a career in the film industry and dipped his toe in the water at a young age, taking on a variety of research jobs including being a runner for programmes such as Real Deal and Most Haunted.

Shortly after he graduated from the University of Wolverhampton in 2006, where he studied video and film production, Bobby, who writes with his friend Nathan Brookes, also from Dudley, enjoyed early success.

His first script won acclaim at the Slam Dance Horror Screenplay Festival and was picked up by Maverick Red, a company owned by the global superstar Madonna.

Dudley News:

Nathan Brookes and Bobby Lee Darby

Bobby said: “I flew to Utah to pick up my award and all of a sudden things started to escalate – I had no manager, no representation, no contract and a cheque for $10,000.

"Unfortunately, the film fell apart and never went into production - at that stage I thought my career was over before it had even begun."

But he didn't give up and realising that networking was crucial in his chosen industry, he began to attend a variety of events – including forums and film festivals – while continuing to write scripts.

He continued: "Eventually I secured a manager who steered my career in the right direction.

"The highs and lows of the industry make you work harder but if you’re determined enough I think I’ve shown that the road from the Black Country to LA isn’t as far as you might think.”

Bobby has been working for WWE Studios based in Los Angeles, having written the script for the sequel to See No Evil and his next film, 12 Rounds 3: Lockdown, has proved popular in America and is due to be released in Britain in January.

Almost a decade after he graduated, Bobby recently returned to his former university to talk to students hoping to follow in his footsteps.

Bobby, who hopes to direct films in the future, certainly made an impression as Tracy McCoy, head of department of film, media and broadcasting, called him an "inspiring individual".

She continued: "It was really useful for our students to see what kind of opportunities are available and how they can connect with the right people, understand the market and be confident about who they are.

"Bobby’s is a truly inspiring story with humble beginnings.”