Boost for North East film and TV industries with new development programme

A new creative industries development project is set to launch in Tees Valley to support the region’s TV and film talent.

Tees Valley Screen, backed by the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority in partnership with Northern Film + Media will provide support to creative professionals seeking opportunities within the film and TV industries.

The programme, which is anticipated to be based in Hartlepool’s BIS centre in the town’s emerging Innovation & Skills Quarter, will offer networking events, advice and funding opportunities for people and businesses looking to break into TV and film.

Tees Valley Screen will be led by a ‘steering group’ of regional industry specialists who will determine the content and direction of the initiative.

Adam Boubada of Couch Potato Films, creative producer Jennifer Corcoran, Daniel John Williams of DJW Talent Agency, Matt McGough from Ithica Films, writer and director Andy Berriman, film producer and disability advocate Gemma Hall and visionary filmmaker Maxy Bianco will work together to shape the programme.

Ben Houchen, Tees Valley Mayor, commented: “In the Tees Valley we have a fantastic heritage in the creative industries, with film directorsTony Scott and Sir Ridley Scott and artist Mackenzie Thorpe learning their craft at West Hartlepool College of Art.

“Businesses involved within the creative industries play an important and growing role in our economy, which is why we’ve been investing to support creative enterprise across our region. We know the value that the film industry can bring, and that’s reflected in our ambitious agenda for economic growth in the Tees Valley.”