New film role for Sting

Ageing rocker Sting is set to return to the movies with a role in a new film written by a close friend.

The singer, real name Gordon Sumner, last hit the big screen in Guy Ritchie's gangster movie 'Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels' in 1998.

Sumner, 58, is now lined up to play a strict headmaster in a movie written by PR guru turned author Simon Astaire.

The film is based on Astaire's debut novel 'Private Privilege', and Astaire thinks Sumner is perfect for a role.

A friend told British newspaper The Mail on Sunday: "They have known each other for years and go walking together in the Himalayas. Simon is hoping Sting will play the part."

Sumner made his acting debut in the 1979 British movie 'Quadrophenia', playing a sharply-dressed Mod named Ace Face.