Scotland's first animated feature film, starring Sir Sean Connery, is to make its international debut next month.

The former 007 star came out of retirement in 2006 to voice the title role in Sir Billi.

It tells the story of a skateboarding grandfather who lives in a remote Highland village. Accompanied by Gordon the Goat, played by Alan Cumming, Sir Billi sets out to rescue Bessie Boo, a beaver who has fallen off a cliff.

Billi Productions, founded in Glasgow by husband and wife Sascha and Tessa Hartmann, had planned to make a 30-minute film but a positive reception from test audiences encouraged them to create an 80-minute feature film.

The producers say the film will be shown at Sonoma International Film Festival in San Francisco in the US next month.

Miriam Margolyes, Ruby Wax and comedian Ford Kiernan are also expected to appear in the cast.

They hope to emulate the success of high-profile Hollywood movies that have used computer-generated imagery, such as Shrek, Ice Age and Finding Nemo.

Sir Sean said: "I'm excited to be a part of this incredible film and Scotland's first animated feature. Sir Billi is truly a first-class film with an exceptional cast and is sure to delight audiences of all ages."

Mr Hartmann said: "To get this film made and completed has really been a true labour of love.

"We received a good studio offer to go to Los Angeles about three years ago with a deal that was pretty exciting but we decided to remain in Scotland, keep creative control and produce a truly Scottish product.

"Granted it's taken longer than we expected and we had to raise more finance, but this is an expensive business and it has to be done right.

"From day one we knew Sir Sean was perfect for the role of Sir Billi, being a true Scottish hero and also a grandfather himself.

"No matter how many times I hear his legendary voice, it still gives me a thrill."