Famous Irish writer/director/producer Jim Sheridan has been named as this year's recipient of the Gregory Peck Award at the annual Dingle Film Festival.

The award, the highlight of the festival, is in recognition of Excellence in the Art of Film, and last year it was awarded to Irish actor Gabriel Byrne.

Anthony Peck, legendary Irish-American actor Gregory Peck’s son, will present the celebrated filmmaker with the award in Dingle on September 11.

Sheridan is behind a number of Ireland’s most successful and critically acclaimed feature films including “My Left Foot” and “In the Name of the Father,” starring Daniel Day-Lewis, “The Field,” starring Richard Harris, “Into the West,” starring Gabriel Byrne and “In America,” starring Samantha Morton.

The Irishman’s films have earned him 16 Oscar nominations and two wins.

Sheridan lives in Dublin with his wife Fran. The couple has three daughters, Kirsten, Naomi and Tess, who have all collaborated with their famous father.

"Our entire family is extremely pleased that Jim Sheridan will be so deservedly honored with the Gregory Peck Award For Excellence in Film," said Gregory Peck’s widow, Veronique.

"Gregory greatly admired Jim's films and his dedication to his craft. My husband always thought of himself as a 'story teller,' and in that sense he would be gratified that such a pre-eminent teller of stories as Jim would be recognized with this honor, and in his beloved County Kerry."

Sheridan commented: "I am honored to receive award and follow in the footsteps of Gabriel Byrne. Gregory Peck was a great man to know and was always welcoming at his home with Veronique and Cecilia and Anthony."

The 3rd annual Dingle Film Festival will take place from September 10-13, 2009.