ONE of Hollywood’s leading gentlemen left heads turning after he paid a surprise visit to Portland.

Actor Colin Firth was spotted visiting the area on Friday last week, taking time to stop at the Harbour Lights Bar and Restaurant for a hot drink.

Firth is widely known for his roles in The King’s Speech, Bridget Jones’s Diary, A Single Man and, more recently, Kingsman: The Secret Service.

Among other awards, Firth has received an Academy Award, a Golden Globe and two BAFTAs for his performances.

Kimberley MacKeown, front of house at Harbour Lights, said she wasn’t sure why Firth was in the area but they were delighted all the same to accommodate him.

She said: “It was nice that they popped in. They just stopped by for coffees and teas.

“It just looked like he out for a sail. I didn’t get a chance to speak to him personally.

“He had quite a number of people with him. It was just very nice and a bit of a coup for the restaurant.

“I think they were pleased to have somewhere warm to come to.

“He seemed to be having a nice time and enjoying the view.”

The restaurant, which recently re-opened under new management, is based at Portland Marina and overlooks the waterside.