It's so nice to go to Cannes without having to present a film

Ken Loach

The patron must be a film-maker who first came to international attention through Critics' Week.

It was Loach's second movie, Kes, shown during Critics' Week in 1970, that launched the director's international career.

Jury prize

Kes will be shown again as part of Critics' Week 2001 in the presence of Loach and other directors.

The director's film Hidden Agenda won the Cannes Jury Prize in 1990, as did Raining Stones in 1993; his Land and Freedom also won two awards at Cannes in 1995.

Loach has received a number of Cannes awards

Loach's films also include Riff-Raff, Carla's Song and Bread and Roses.

On being made patron for the Critics' Week, Loach said:

"It's so nice to go to Cannes without having to present a film.

"In spite of what people say, most people go to Cannes to see films and talk about them.

"This is what I'm looking forward to doing this year."

Cannes Critics' Week, which takes place 10-19 May, concentrates on the work of new film makers.