George Clooney visits Downing Street

George Clooney yesterday paid a visit to Downing Street to discuss the Darfur crisis with Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

Clooney, who was appointed a UN Messenger Of Peace in January, talked about the mounting problems in Sudan ahead of the UK premiere of his film Leatherheads.

The 46-year-old actor and director posed with the prime minister and his wife Sarah Brown.

Clooney later said a "wonderful suggestion" had been made at the meeting to buy peacekeeping helicopters for the area.

Prime Minister Brown said: "I am grateful for the leadership George Clooney has shown in drawing attention to this crisis. This is a humanitarian tragedy of colossal proportions and the world must take note and act.

"The UK is working with the international community and others to pressure all sides to agree a ceasefire and start peace talks."