AS Hollywood film legends go, they probably don't get much bigger than former James Bond star Sir Roger Moore.

That's not just praise from a self-confessed fan - it's backed up by the two minutes of applause from a sell-out audience that welcomed the actor, director and raconteur to the Floral Pavilion in New Brighton on Sunday night as part of a national tour promoting his new book.

The 86-year-old looked back on a career that included cult '60s TV series The Saint and The Persuaders, several Hollywood blockbusters and, course, a 12-year stint as Ian Fleming's superspy.

He was in town for what turned out to be a candid, entertaining and humorous look back at more than six decades in film.

The show was hosted by Gareth Owen, who has interviewed Roger and worked with the actor on his autobiography My Word Is My Bond, Bond On Bond and Roger's latest book: Last Man Standing: Tales from Tinseltown.

The show also included a chance for members of the audiences to quiz the star.

"So how did it all start?" asked Gareth.

"I was born", Roger replied.

But it wasn't all about life and laughter behind the lens.

It ended with a heartfelt talk about his work as ambassador for international aid charity UNICEF, the organisation he has been involved with since 1991, and a plea for support.

As well as being a potted history about his life and work it was also a chance to learn a little more about the London-born star who fought The Man With The Golden Gun.

For instance, we learned the Monaco-based star was educated for a short time in Chester.

I remember watching Moore's final outing as Bond - A View To A Kill - on a rainy afternoon in Blackpool not long after its release in 1985, but my favourite was Live & Let Die, released in 1973.

So to be among the 900 fellow Bond fans on Sunday night was a joy.

10/10: Licence to thrill