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Double victory for North East productions at the Broadcast Digital Awards

Posted on 3 July 20253 July 2025 by Jo Macleod

Two daring, original productions from the North East have taken home top honours at the prestigious Broadcast Digital Awards 2025, cementing their place among Britain’s most innovative storytellers.

Smoggie Queens, a powerful, laugh-out-loud comedy series spotlighting the LGBTQIA+ community in Teesside, won Best Comedy. The Hat Trick Production supported by the North East Production Fund, was applauded for its combination of both character work and physical comedy, with creator and star, Phill Dunning, getting deserved praise from the judges.

Meanwhile, I Printed a Gun: Plastic and Deadly, an investigative documentary examining the rise of 3D-printed firearms, from Newcastle-based Northern Child, won Best Short Form Documentary. The extraordinary piece of investigative journalism has not only highlighted this issue, but drive real-world legislative change with a bill going to parliament.

Lisa Laws, Development Director, at North East Screen said:

“We are a region of storytellers and innovation, and both of these shows are brilliant examples of stories that resonate with global audiences.

We have nurtured relationships with both Hat Trick and Northern Child in different ways, and they are proof that you can grow and develop your business in the North East, create meaningful relationships with broadcasters and commissioners, and produce exceptional world class content.”

Both projects were made support from North East Screen via the North East Production Fund and the business development commission pitch opportunities, with strong backing from broadcasters championing fresh perspectives.

The North East has seen brilliant growth over the last three years with an 131% increase in production since 2022. The region has gone from having one regularly commissioned company to now having eight delivering across multiple genres including drama, scripted comedy, unscripted documentaries and factual entertainment.

The Broadcast Digital Awards celebrate excellence and creativity in digital broadcasting, honouring content that pushes boundaries and connects deeply with audiences.

Sunderland studio plans move to final investment stage

Posted on 1 July 20251 July 2025 by Jo Macleod

PLANS for a world-class film studio complex are being presented to the investment market, with the aim to put in place a final funder and developer later this year.

Sunderland City Council as land-owner and project lead is moving to test the appetite of the wider investment market for the Crown Works Film Studios opportunity, and is appointing a specialist agent who will be engaging investors, including the likes of Fulwell Entertainment who were part of the joint venture which first tabled proposals for a North East studio and continue to champion the project.

The council have confirmed that – as is necessary in public sector projects – they will be testing the investment market, to ensure that they secure the best partner to push ahead with the studio plans. The process, which will take place over the coming months, gives interested parties a window of opportunity to commit to develop the first phase of the studios. A final decision will then be made by Sunderland City Council on who will progress with the studios.

As the development of Crown Works Studios, which has been backed by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness, will involve considerable public sector support in both grant and the disposal 30 hectares of land on the banks of the Wear – market testing is required to ensure the proposed developer(s) plans represent the best opportunity for the project to demonstrate the return required on the public investment.

Councillor Michael Mordey, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “These studios represent a game-changing opportunity for the city and we cannot wait to see them progress.

“There’s an absolute commitment to deliver the best possible delivery partner to move this forward and we expect that we will have funding confirmed and ready to progress the first phase of the studios by the time remediation works complete later this year.”

A programme of remediation work is now on-site, instructed by Sunderland City Council using funding from UK Government unlocked through the North East Combined Authority, to prepare the former Crown Works site for development.

Planning permission has been secured for Crown Works Studios and a total funding package worth £120m to support its development is available, thanks partly to the efforts of the local authority in lobbying Government to support the development of a film studios on the site.

The Government’s support for Crown Works – which was channelled via the North East Combined Authority – represents a significant incentive that underpins the commercial viability of the scheme for investors looking to get involved in the first phase of its development.

Fulwell Entertainment remains a committed champion of the scheme. Other key supporters include North East Screen, the region’s screen agency, which is headquartered in Sunderland.

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: “We have big ambitions to grow the North East’s creative sector and Crown Works Studios in Sunderland is a key element of our vision, alongside opening the first major label recording studio in the region and opening a national centre for new writing.

“We’re supporting Sunderland City Council in the job of preparing the site, which can eventually be the largest film and TV production complex in the UK outside of London and the South East.

“In the process we’ll create thousands of new jobs for local people and end the days where people have to leave the North East to pursue a career in creative industries. This is why the project has to date secured a public sector funding package worth £120m including £25m which we have put in to begin preparation of the site at Pallion on Sunderland Riverside. We remain confident that this will be a flagship site in a thriving industry for years to come.”

The studios will provide infrastructure that North East Screen Chief Executive Alison Gwynn said will underpin the region’s success in the sector.

She said: “The region is 100% committed to studio development as part of their support for the wider creative industry.

“Film and TV production in the North East is up 131% over the last three years and we recently saw one of the most eagerly anticipated blockbusters, 28 Years Later, showcase not only some outstanding locations, but also some epic scenes created here in our alternative studio space. Not only did they shoot more than 80% of the film in the region, but they also were based here for over nine months.”

“We are now excited to be looking for the right investor for the next stage of our regions growth. The North East have never been in a better position to make the most of these exciting opportunities.”

Creative Industries are at the heart of Government’s priorities in its Industrial Strategy. It is one of eight key growth sectors identified in the Strategy, with a published Sector Plan demonstrating a commitment to investment, IP protection and enhanced R&D for the sector.

28 Years Later to have special North East Gala Screening

Posted on 12 June 2025 by Jo Macleod

On Thursday 19th June, one of the most hotly anticipated films of the year, 28 Years Later, will have a special North East Gala Screening at the Tyneside Cinema, Newcastle. The film’s Director, Danny Boyle, and Newcastle-native actor, Alfie Williams, who makes his feature film debut in 28 Years Later, will be attending.

In partnership with the North East Combined Authority, Destination North East, Tyneside Cinema and Visit Britain, North East Screen will be rolling out the black carpet for invited guests and media to celebrate the franchise film that was predominantly filmed within the North East. The screening will also be attended by North East crew, extras and location providers who were all involved in the film’s production.

Kim McGuiness, North East Mayor said,

“The North East Gala Screening will be one of the largest screen events held in the North East for some time. The film will have wide global reach and we are proud that people will see the North East as the stunning backdrop to this film as well as see the work of our world class talented crew, suppliers and facilities. The North East welcomes more filming and 28 Years Later proves we can be a home for world class film and TV production creating more jobs for local people.”

Gayle Woodruffe, Operations Director at North East Screen commented,

“We are delighted to welcome Danny, Alfie and so many of our amazingly talented North East Crew to this special preview screening of 28 Years Later, made right here in the North East. The team made excellent use of the diversity and versatility of locations available in our region and the film promotes the North East of England as a viable home for major feature films and HETV drama.”

Nic Greenan, Chief Executive at the Tyneside Cinema added,

“This is such an important moment for The Tyneside Cinema, and hosting such a prestigious screening will make this heritage venue the number one place to see and experience the film in the region where it was filmed.”

Ian Thomas, Chief Operating Officer of NewcastleGateshead Initiative on behalf of Destination North East Englandsaid,

“To have such a massive blockbuster as 28 Years Later both be set and filmed in the region is fantastic, shining a spotlight on our tranquil countryside, dramatic coastlines and vibrant towns and cities to cinema goers around the world. It will be a huge draw for visitors eager to explore our stunning landscapes and walk in the footsteps of the film’s stars. Alongside a multi-channel tourism campaign we’re delivering in partnership with Visit Britain and Sony Pictures, we’re proud to support the regional gala screening, a huge coup for the city, and to welcome the film’s director and passionate advocate for Northern England Danny Boyle back to the area to unleash the latest instalment on the viewing public! Visit North East England… if you dare!”

Patricia Yates, CEO VisitBritain said,

“The North East Gala Screeningwill truly put Newcastle and the North East centre-stage. With the starring role destinations across the region have played in the film there could not be a more fitting place to host a screening, inspiring visitors to go out and explore the locations seen on screen. It is also timely as VisitBritain rolls out its international ‘Starring GREAT Britain campaign’. Using films and TV shows as the hook the campaign is telling the story of our dynamic and diverse destinations including the North East, encouraging people to put themselves in the picture and book a trip to Britain right now, driving visitor spending into local economies.”

Academy Award®-winning director Danny Boyle and Academy Award®-nominated writer Alex Garland reunite for 28 YEARS LATER, a terrifying new “auteur horror” story set in the world created by 28 Days Later. It’s been almost three decades since the rage virus escaped a biological weapons laboratory, and now, still in a ruthlessly enforced quarantine, some have found ways to exist amidst the infected. One such group of survivors lives on a small island connected to the mainland by a single, heavily defended causeway. When one of the group leaves the island on a mission into the dark heart of the mainland, he discovers secrets, wonders, and horrors that have mutated not only the infected but other survivors as well.

Columbia Pictures presents 28 YEARS LATER. The film stars Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jack O’Connell, Alfie Williams and Ralph Fiennes. Directed By Danny Boyle. Written by Alex Garland. Produced by Andrew Macdonald, Peter Rice, Bernard Bellew, Danny Boyle, Alex Garland. Executive producer is Cillian Murphy. The director of photography is Anthony Dod Mantle ASC, BSC, DFF. The editor is Jon Harris. Production & costume designers are Gareth Pugh and Carson McColl. Music by Young Fathers. Casting by Gail Stevens CDG and Rebecca Farhall.

International tourism campaigns make North East the star of the show

Posted on 1 May 20251 May 2025 by Jo Macleod

North East England is set to benefit from an influx of international tourists thanks to a number of international marketing campaigns, as summer tourism season approaches.

Destination North East England is leading on multiple international marketing campaigns alongside partners including DFDS, Expedia Group, Newcastle International Airport and tourism body VisitBritain.

The campaigns, which represent hundreds of thousands of pounds of marketing investment are aligned with VisitBritain’s international #StarringGREATBritain programme which focusses on the ‘set jetting’ trend, encouraging tourists to explore famous filming locations and delve into the movies and TV shows filmed in the region.

Throughout the spring, the campaign activity has been showcasing the region around the world, contributing significantly to Destination North East England’s goal of doubling the value of the visitor economy over the next ten years.

The campaigns aim to showcase all corners of the region, from our breathtaking coastlines, tranquil countryside and our vibrant towns and cities to eager tourists – especially those who are keen to explore some of the region’s iconic film and TV locations, that have lit up the box office in recent years.

The region’s burgeoning screen industry continues to be a huge asset for the tourism sector, with TV shows like ITV’s Vera and blockbusters like premium horror, 28 Years Later (released 20th June 2025), showcasing some of our most iconic landscapes and locations to audiences around the world. As work continues on the landmark Crown Works Studios development on Wearside and more productions seek to point their cameras in the North East’s direction, tourism leaders hope this will inspire more visitors to walk in the footsteps of their favourite TV and film stars.

Chair of Destination North East England John Marshall said: “Telling the North East’s story around the world is key to our ambition to double the value of the visitor economy over the next ten years. By aligning with the Starring GREAT Britain programme to shine a light on our incredible screen sector and through the power of strong partnerships with Visit Britain, DFDS, Expedia and Newcastle International Airport, we look forward to welcoming more visitors to our special part of the world.”

Chief Executive of North East Screen, Alison Gwynn, said:

“The North East has some of the best filming locations in the world and a rich history of iconic films and TV shows that have attracted tourists to the region.”

“Production in the region is already up 89% in the past two years, and our ambition is to see the North East become one of the leading destinations for world class film and TV production in the next 10 years.”

“Aligning our ambition to brilliant initiatives curated by those rock star filming destinations like Alnwick Castle, Durham Cathedral and Cragside, will not only attract more global productions, but also introduce new audiences to some of the hidden gems the region has to offer.”

Pete Akerman, Marketing Director, DFDS said:

“We are excited to be part of this initiative to promote North East England as a premier international tourist destination and to showcase the region’s unique attractions in collaboration with NewcastleGateshead Initiative and VisitBritain. Our Amsterdam-Newcastle route is a vital link between mainland Europe and North East England, providing travellers with a convenient way to explore this beautiful region.”

“This initiative highlights the unique offerings of the North East and strengthens our commitment to enhancing the visitor experience for our northbound passengers. We look forward to welcoming travellers to explore the breathtaking coastlines, charming towns, and iconic film and TV locations that make the North East truly special.”

ITV commissions Torvill & Dean: The Last Dance by North-East based FilmNova

Posted on 1 May 20251 May 2025 by Jo Macleod

ITV has announced a one-off documentary Torvill & Dean: The Last Dance, made by Gateshead-based FilmNova.

The 60-minute programme will follow ice skating legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean as they embark on their last ever tour, ‘Our Last Dance’.

The film explores Torvill and Dean’s career, looking back on their professional highlights, and follows the skating duo as they train and prepare to say goodbye to their fans and dance on ice together one last time.

From from their preparations and last ever television performance on Dancing on Ice; the early gruelling training sessions and first rehearsals for their farewell tour in Aberdeen; through to the iconic first performance of the live tour at Wembley Arena and throughout their shows across the UK – viewers will be with them every step of the way, gaining an intimate insight into what it’s been like to live life as the UK’s greatest ever ice skaters, their 50-year relationship and their desire to leave a lasting legacy.

Jayne Torvill & Christopher Dean said: “We’re delighted that our farewell tour will be the subject of an ITV documentary. The programme will be filled with poignant and joyful moments as we plan, rehearse and perform our final skating journey together – all caught on camera by a film crew following us over many months as we bid farewell to our 50 year ice skating partnership. It’s fitting that this documentary will be broadcast on ITV, our TV home for the last two decades. We hope fans will enjoy this final opportunity to see us skate together.”

FilmNova Executive Producer, Lucy Cutler said: “It is an honour for FilmNova to add to our growing Originals portfolio with this prestigious documentary for ITV and a privilege for us to film with two of British sports greatest ever Olympians as they embark on this extraordinary final tour. Jayne and Chris have allowed our cameras unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to capture every moment as they strive to recreate some of their most memorable routines, supported by an
ensemble cast of world class skaters. ‘Perfection’ is a word often attributed to their iconic performances, and with good reason, but this film will also illustrate the painstaking path necessary to remain the very best, 50 years after it all began. We are thrilled to be working alongside the talented team at Phil McIntyre Entertainments in order to bring to the screen a story for the ages.”

Commissioned by Katie Rawcliffe, Director of Entertainment & Daytime ITV, Katie said: “We are thrilled to be continuing our long working relationship with Torvill and Dean as they embark on their most iconic tour to celebrate their astonishing life, both on and off the ice, a treat for their fans and the ITV audience.”

Have your say on Hartlepool Screen Industries Production Village plans

Posted on 10 April 202510 April 2025 by Jo Macleod

Members of the public are being asked to help shape transformational plans for Hartlepool’s growing film and TV industry at a two-day event.

Work is being developed on multi-million pound projects to develop the town as a centre for film and TV production, including a significant expansion of the Northern Studios complex in Lynn Street.

The studio expansion will complement plans led by Hartlepool Borough Council to create a Production Village in the Lynn Street and Whitby Street area and build on the town’s burgeoning film-making pedigree.

Members of the public can find out more about the proposals at a consultation event in Hartlepool on Tuesday 15th April, at The Northern Studios, on Lynn Street, from 12noon until 7pm, and Wednesday 16th April from 12noon to 7pm, at the former H&M unit in Middleton Grange Shopping Centre.

It will be led by consultants Pegasus Planning and Leonard Design, who are working in partnership with Hartlepool Borough Council and Hartlepool Development Corporation, and project leaders will be on hand to explain the plans, answer questions and listen to views.

Hartlepool Borough Council Leader Councillor Brenda Harrison said:

“Creating jobs, driving investment in Hartlepool and delivering regeneration are all key aims of our council and this project delivers all three in an abundance. We are proud to be leading the way with this transformational project for Hartlepool.

“The film and TV industry has been one of Hartlepool’s fastest growing sectors in recent years and we are building on that success and creating more jobs for local people in a wide range of careers.

“We are excited for work to begin but before we get to that point, we are keen to engage with a range of stakeholders including members of the public to get views on the proposals so please do take up this opportunity to get involved and have your say.”

Tees Valley Mayor and Hartlepool Development Corporation Chairman Ben Houchen said:

“We are dedicated to developing Hartlepool as a powerhouse for TV and film production and have made excellent progress so far.

“However we want to go much further to deliver this significant investment, which will bring international productions to the town and create well-paid skilled jobs in Hartlepool.

“It’s vital that local people directly benefit from these projects – which is why we want their involvement in this process, to hear what is planned and help shape these developments.”

Funding for the Northern Studios expansion would be provided under a proposed £15million allocation from the Tees Valley Investment Zone. Tees Valley secured Investment Zone status in 2023, with a total of £160million allocated to drive the creative and digital sectors.

Hartlepool Borough Council’s is leading on the Production Village project, supported by £16.5million from the Levelling Up Fund.

Working with North East Screen, Northern Studios opened in 2022 supported by funding from the Tees Valley Mayor and the Tees Valley Combined Authority in partnership with Hartlepool Borough Council.

It is the only large-scale film and TV studio facility in the North East. Recent productions filmed at the studios include feature film Jackdaw alongside Sky true crime documentaries, ITV drama and comedy productions. It has also been used as a unit base for productions filming on location in Hartlepool.

BBC Comedy’s Smoggie Queens, ITV drama I Fought the Law, and ITV comedy Transaction were also created with the help of the facility.

Northern Studios is based next to the Northern School of Art which provides training and education courses for the creative industries.

North East Screen Chief Executive Alison Gwynn said:

“The North East has been the fastest growing region in the UK for the film and TV industry which has seen an increase in production by 89%.

“The development of the Northern Studios and Production Village in Hartlepool will see the town and surrounding areas become a real hotbed for world class film, digital and TV productions as well as suppliers to the wider creative industries businesses.

“It’ll also provide opportunities for local people who have previously had to leave the region to work in the industry.”

The Northern School of Art Principal, Dr Martin Raby, said:

“This is an important step in the development of The Northern Studios. The Studios have been operating successfully, which is testament to the initial backing from Hartlepool Borough Council and Tees Valley Combined Authority, but the requirements of the sector are progressing.

“The creation of the Production Village and the enhancement of the Studios, supported by the sterling efforts of North East Screen to attract productions, will facilitate much greater screen industry activity in Hartlepool, the Tees Valley and the wider North East, bringing further economic benefits to the town and the region. In addition, it will provide work experience opportunities for students and will boost employment prospects for our graduates.”

North East Screen hosts exclusive screening for new 5 drama by North East-based Lonesome Pine

Posted on 7 April 20257 April 2025 by Jo Macleod

Stars Jill Halfpenny and Larry Lamb joined 5 commissioner Paul Testar, writer Ash Ditta and North East Production crew for an exclusive screening of domestic drama The Feud at the Tyneside Cinema in Newcastle, ahead of its transmission on Monday 14^th April.

Filmed last year in and around Newcastle, the new 6-part series starring local actor Jill Halfpenny and Rupert Penry-Jones, was produced by Newcastle-based Lonesome Pine Productions and supported by the North East Production Fund.

The fund, administered by North East Screen on behalf of the North East Screen Industries Partnership is attracting more productions to film in the region bringing jobs and inward investment. £2.5 million has been invested so far into scripted projects. 5 is the first broadcaster in over 15 years to commission a North East based company for a drama filmed in the region.

Gayle Woodruffe, Operations Director at North East Screen, said;

“The Feud is one of 10 productions to shoot in the region with North East Production Fund investment so far. Each production hires regional crew, and actors, uses regional supply chain companies as well as providing training opportunities which helps to build regional infrastructure.

“Lonesome Pine is a great example of a regionally based production company bringing stories of global appeal to the screen. We were delighted to support the series and are looking forward to what comes next.”

As well as investment, the production received assistance from North East Screen’s Film Office to find crew, facilities and locations; the skills team to give trainees the opportunity to work on a scripted drama, and the business development team to support their growing business. North East Screen are continuing to build a vibrant and sustainable global screen sector in the region. The North East is the fastest growing region in the UK for screen industries.

Lesley Douglas, Executive Producer and Managing Director of Lonesome Pine said;

“Making The Feud in the North East is exactly why we moved Lonesome Pine here. The crew who worked on the show were exceptional and made the filming an absolute joy, come rain or shine. We received nothing but really positive feedback about the crew from all of our amazing cast – including of course Jill Halfpenny, someone else who made the decision to head back home!

“North East Screen has been holding our hand since we arrived here 3 years ago, and not only did they invest in the project at a critical point, but they also helped us access the region’s full potential. We are so proud of The Feud, and it is only through the support of 5, North East Screen and Banijay that we were given the opportunity to make it. We look forward to working further with North East Screen and playing our part in building the North East’s presence on and off screen.”

Paul Testar, Commissioning Editor, Scripted, 5, adds:

“Working with North East Screen has been a pleasure, and their support has been invaluable in bringing The Feud to life. The collaboration allowed us to tap into local talent and resources, providing access to the wealth of experience and knowledge in the North East that really brought the series together. We look forward to working with North East Screen again, and sharing this compelling drama with our audience on 5.”

Jill Halfpenny plays lead Emma Barnett in the series and was excited to be back in her home city to film.

“It was a joy to work in the North East again, being surrounded by local crew and knowing we could all go home to our families at night meant a lot and is something which I hope we can all do more of. Lonesome Pine were an absolute pleasure. Lesley and Ash made the job feel so collaborative. I loved every minute.”

The Feud begins Monday 14^th April, 9pm, on 5.

Hit BBC Comedy Smoggie Queens is back for a second series

Posted on 24 March 202524 March 2025 by Jo Macleod

Smoggie Queens, the award-winning BBC sitcom produced by Hat Trick Productions, has been recommissioned for a second series on BBC Three and BBC iPlayer for 2025.

Written and created by Middlesbrough native Phil Dunning, the series recently won Best Comedy at the RTS North East Awards, whilst Dunning won Best Newcomer.

Series two promises to bring more slapstick and silly laughs, with some excellent one liners from Dickie (Dunning), and a copious amount of joy for viewers.

Dickie, Mam (Mark Benton), Lucinda (Alexandra Mardell), Sal (Patsy Lowe) and Stewart (Elijah Young) are back in the Boro as our Smoggie Queens find a place of pride for themselves in their small corner of the UK.

Showing what the North East is made of and the resilience of the queer community, the gang forge ahead with new relationships and rekindle some old ones, all while they cement those chosen family bonds. Expect more mad antics and chaotic energy as the Queens take you on (another) ride of your life!

Phil Dunning, Writer, Creator and Actor said “Really made up that the BBC have recommissioned Smoggie Queens. I’ve pencilled it in my diary.”

Chris Jones, Producer said “So glad we get to go back to the Boro for more Smoggie Queens. Really grateful to the BBC for giving this big old queer show another run.”

Jimmy Mulville, Hat Trick Managing Director said “We all need a feel-good, laugh out loud show to watch, so thank God Smoggie Queens is coming back! Who doesn’t want to hang out with the funniest, craziest and most lovable crew on telly at the moment.”

Jon Petrie, BBC Director of Comedy said “Smoggie Queens is back—along with the wigs, the big laughs, and the brilliantly chaotic energy that made us fall in love with Dickie and the gang. This show is something special.”

Gayle Woodruffe, Operations Director at North East Screen said: “We’re thrilled that North East Production Fund supported Smoggie Queens is back for season two, and excited to see what Dickie and his chosen family get up to next. Continuing to work with the great team at Hat Trick allows us to create even more pipelines to industry for our brilliant on and off screen talent.”

Smoggie Queens (6 x 30) is a Hat Trick production (Derry Girls, Outnumbered, Have I Got News For You and Episodes) for BBC Three and BBC iPlayer, and funding support by North East Screen Industries Partnership delivered by North East Screen with worldwide distribution by Hat Trick International. The series was commissioned by Jon Petrie, Director of BBC Comedy. The producer is Chris Jones (Kate & Koji, Whistle Through The Shamrocks). The Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Gregor Sharp.

Broadcast details will be announced in due course.

Not watched season one yet? Catch it on BBC iPlayer.

Three North East Companies Selected for BBC Small Indie Fund 2025

Posted on 13 March 202513 March 2025 by North East Screen

Three independent production companies based in the North East have been chosen as recipients of the BBC’s Small Indie Fund for 2025.

Candle and Bell (Gateshead), Northern Child, and Schnoobert Productions (both Newcastle) have all secured support through the prestigious fund, which provides mentorship, strategic investment, and networking opportunities to help small production companies grow. Additionally, Candle and Bell has also been selected for the BBC Radio & Music Indie Development Fund, receiving support from the entire BBC audio division.

Launched in 2020, the BBC’s TV Small Indie Fund supports production companies across Drama, Comedy, Film, Entertainment, Factual, Daytime, and Children’s content. This year, the BBC has invested approximately £1.3m into 33 companies across the UK, with 76% based outside London, reinforcing its commitment to developing talent in the Nations and Regions.

The BBC Radio & Music Indie Development Fund, worth £250k, helps independent audio production companies by providing mentoring and access to commissioning teams across BBC Music and Speech.

The selected companies will receive direct mentorship from BBC commissioning teams, investment to support their growth, and networking opportunities with key BBC stakeholders, helping them build sustainable futures in the industry.

Maria Caruana Galizia, Managing Director at Candle and Bell, said:

“We are proud to have been awarded both the BBC TV Small Indie Fund and the Radio & Music Indie Development Fund. Working with the BBC over the past two years has been transformative for the company. The funding and mentoring support has allowed us to grow and develop our comedy offering and resulted in us producing ‘Tom and Lauren Are Going OOT!’ a radio sitcom developed for BBC Radio 4. Receiving this ongoing support will enable us to continue to develop homegrown stories, represent North East talent on and off screen, and begin to grow in the international market.”

Andrew Eastle, Managing Director of Northern Child, said:

“We are extremely grateful to the BBC for selecting us as a recipient of the Small Indie Fund. We are determined to sustain and grow Northern Child’s presence in the North East. We will invest this money into local talent who can help us win new commissions and create more opportunities for people working in TV in the region.”

Jason Cook, Chief Executive of Schnoobert Productions, said:

“We are over the moon to be working with the BBC again with help from the Small Indie Fund. As we grow as a company this will be invaluable to us and furthers our commitment to becoming a commissionable, go-to production house right here in the North East.”

Lisa Laws, Development Director at North East Screen said:

“The BBC Small Indie Fund is an increasingly competitive award, and we’re thrilled to see three North East companies selected this year. Their inclusion in the fund is testament to both the BBC’s commitment to diversify their suppliers and potential of the North East’s screen sector. With tailored mentoring and investment from the BBC, these companies will be able to scale up, secure new commissions, and continue to put our region’s talent on the national and international stage.”

David Pembrey, Chief Operating Officer, BBC Content, added:

“In a global market which continues to see production consolidation, we remain committed to investing in new and smaller independent businesses and the UK’s creative industries. We want to ensure our audiences get to enjoy the very best homegrown storytelling, for which investment in the roots of production across the UK is vital.”

North East talent shines at the Oscars

Posted on 3 March 20253 March 2025 by North East Screen

Some friends of the North East had a fantastic evening at the 97th Academy Awards last night (2nd March), with Gateshead-born writer Peter Straughan and Northumbria University graduate Lol Crawley earning top honours.

Peter Straughan received the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay for Conclave, an adaptation of Robert Harris’s papal thriller. This accolade adds to his previous awards, including a BAFTA, Golden Globe, and Critics Choice award for the same work.

Lol Crawley was honoured with the Oscar for Best Cinematography for his work on The Brutalist. This marks his first Oscar nomination and win. Originally from Shrewsbury, Lol came to the North East to study and earned a BA Hons in Film and Television Production at Northumbria University.

Peter and Lol’s success is a true inspiration for writers, cinematographers and creatives in our region. Whether you’re born in the North East or come here to learn your craft, you too could one day be taking home one of the highest honours in film.

Here’s to many more years of North East talent winning top accolades on a global stage!