Tag: Hartlepool

5 Announce North East-Based Lonesome Pine’s New Psychological Drama

Posted on 30 September 202530 September 2025 by Curtis Wake

5 Announce Eleanor Tomlinson and Matthew Lewis Set to Star in Lonesome Pine’s Psychological Drama The Family Secret

5 has today announced the exciting cast line-up for new drama The Family Secret (w/t), a 4×60 mystery series from Lonesome Pine, in association with Sphere Abacus and North East Screen.

A commission previously announced in 5’s bumper slate earlier this year, The Family Secret (w/t) is a gripping, psychological drama that asks: what if your past isn’t what you think it is? Eleanor Tomlinson (One Day, Poldark) stars as Amanda Blakefield, whose life is a happy one with her husband, Jimmy played by Matthew Lewis (Harry Potter, All Creatures Great and Small), and their son Luke, played by newcomer James Younger. Amanda has her world shattered after she is left an enormous inheritance by a man she has neither met nor heard of before. Her life starts to disintegrate as she becomes embroiled in the world of The Worrall Family. The patriarch Martin Worrall, played by Denis Lawson (Bleak House, New Tricks), is head of a family which is bound in past secrets. As Amanda’s story leads her further and further into the Northumbrian countryside, she begins to unravel the past. And all of their lives are turned upside down.

Further cast include Rebecca Front (The Thick of It, Lewis) as Martin’s wife Fiona, with Callum Woodhouse (All Creatures Great and Small, The Durrells) as his son Anthony. Stephen Tompkinson (DCI Banks, Wild At Heart) joins as farm worker Boots Maddison, Paula Wilcox (Trying, Upstart Crow) as Amanda’s mother Linda, Danielle Walters (Chewing Gum, Kill Your Friends) as Amanda’s best friend Sandy, and Nina Wadia (Eastenders, Goodness Gracious Me) as solicitor Laura.

The series was commissioned by Paul Testar, Commissioning Editor, 5 and is produced by Lonesome Pine (The Inheritance, The Feud), with funding by North East Screen and in association with Sphere Abacus who will distribute the series internationally. Lesley Douglas will Produce for Lonesome Pine, alongside Ellie Hill. Executive Producers for Sphere Abacus are Jonathan Ford and Will Stapley. Gayle Woodruffe manages the Production Fund on behalf of North East Screen. Writer Aschlin Ditta (The Feud, The Inheritance, Doc Martin) joins with Andy de Emmony (Vigil, The Feud, The Nest) on board as Director.

On bringing this story to the 5 audience, Paul Testar, Commissioning Editor, 5 says: “The Family Secret explores the fragility of family and the ripple effects of long-buried truths, all anchored by a brilliant cast led by Eleanor Tomlinson. This is a drama that promises to keep audiences hooked from the very first minute and we’re delighted to work with Lonesome Pine again after the success of The Inheritance and The Feud.”

The Family Secret (w/t) is filming now across the North East of England and is set to air on 5 in 2026.

North East Screen Celebrates 3 Years of Big Impacts and Bigger Ambitions

Posted on 25 September 202529 September 2025 by Jo Macleod

North East Screen is proud to unveil its 3 Years of Big Impacts Report (2022–2025), showcasing a remarkable period of growth in a difficult global climate.

North East Screen Industries Partnership (NESIP) investments across the North East is creating opportunities for the resilient world class talent based in the region to innovate and pivot to new ways of working across an ever changing creative industry.

The report highlights a 131% surge in regional production spend, driven by strategic investment, the impactful work of the North East Screen Film Office, and the growth of a vibrant creative ecosystem fostered through collaboration with regional and national partners, including the BBC. With over £65 million in GVA, the North East has firmly established itself as the fastest-growing region in the UK for screen industries.

Other key achievements over the three years include:

The equivalent of 1,046 FTE jobs created across the screen sector, according to the EIA Saffrey report
An impressive £6.70 return on every £1 invested in projects via the North East Production Fund (NEPF)
£2.37 million invested in 10 productions through the NEPF
65% of crew members employed on NEPF productions are from the North East
A 90% increase in filming days with productions staying and filming for longer in the region thanks to alternative studio spaces
6,422 paid training days on production delivered to support lifelong workforce development
8 regularly commissioned companies – up from just one prior to 2022
50 investments in slate and business development for regional companies and talent

North East Screen Chief Executive, Alison Gwynn said,

“Not only is the North East the fastest growing region in the UK for screen industries, it’s also a region bursting with untapped potential, despite the challenges the global screen industry has faced.

“This report is a testament to the power of our unique public sector and industry collaboration. Everything achieved here is thanks to the incredible talent, crew, businesses and world class stories that are rooted in our region.

“Productions come to the North East for our world class locations, which are vibrant, diverse and really accessible, and stay because they find all they need via our welcoming front door to the industry in the region.

“This is just the beginning. As we enter the next phase of our delivery, we will ensure that our activity reflects the diversity of the region, backs innovation, and has sustainable and inclusive practices embedded across all of it.”

North East Screen is the delivery programme of the North East Screen Industries Partnership (NESIP), driving growth across the screen industries and wider creative industries in the North East and Tees Valley with funding support from the Tees Valley Combined Authority and North East Combined Authority. NESIP is committed to unlocking the full creative potential of the region, with the aim to more than double its share of the UK film and TV production market, generating an economic impact of £88 million over the initial five year period.

In collaboration with the BBC and alongside regional education institutions, NESIP is building a sustainable, inclusive screen ecosystem that nurtures local talent, supports production, and attracts national and international projects.

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said,

“We are a region full of creative talent and that is why we’re investing £6,252,944 to support the groundbreaking work North East Screen is doing to bring major film and TV productions to our region.

“Our iconic landmarks and locations have been beamed across the world and featured in leading film and TV productions, including the Harry Potter films and more recently 28 Years Later.

“Bringing more productions to the region means hundreds of new creative jobs and opportunities, right from starring roles to those supporting behind the scenes.

“We’re setting the stage to become a real powerhouse of UK film and TV production, and as our plans for leading studios right here in our region progress, it’s an incredibly exciting time for the creative industries and talent located here in the Noth East.”

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said,

“It’s outstanding that our region’s vibrant TV and film production industry is going from strength to strength as the fastest-growing in the UK – supporting hugely successful shows such as the powerful Teesside story told in ‘I Fought The Law‘.

“Our support – in collaboration with the work of North East Screen – is helping this area establish itself as creative powerhouse and become a place where local people can build exciting, skilled careers.

“Through the Tees Valley Investment Zone, we’re putting a real focus on supporting our fast-growing creative and digital sectors – driving forward with the £33.5m expansion of The Northern Studios and an exciting new production village in Hartlepool.

“These developments are creating well-paid jobs, attracting investment, and making our region the go-to place for world-class productions. We’re proud to be playing our part in this success story.”

As the region continues to grow, North East Screen remains committed to backing homegrown talent and championing the crews and businesses that bring global content to the region. With the North East, Crown Works Studios and the Tees Valley Investment Zone – focused on growing creative and digital industries – highlighted in the Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy, the region is in a good place to continue its growth, enhancing why the North East is considered one of the best places to live, work and play in the UK.

Watch the Impact Video

Planning approval secured for major expansion of Hartlepool’s film and TV production industry

Posted on 17 September 202517 September 2025 by Curtis Wake

Planning approval secured for major expansion of Hartlepool’s film and TV production industry

A £33.5 million major expansion of film and television production facilities in Hartlepool is officially underway, following planning approval being granted for a transformative new development.

The Northern Studios will undergo an expansion, including the construction of larger studios and the installation of industry-leading equipment and facilities. In addition, a Screen Industries Production Village will be developed in the surrounding area, repurposing nine disused buildings into cutting-edge pre and post-production spaces, workshops, and collaborative hubs for creative professionals.

Among the buildings to be revitalised is the Grade-II listed Shades Hotel, which will be brought back into use alongside several other heritage properties.

Councillor Pamela Hargreaves, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Economic Growth and Regeneration Committee, said: “This is a game-changing moment for Hartlepool—not just for our creative industries, but for our town as a whole. The £33.5 million investment into expanding our film and television production facilities will create over 130 new jobs, attract further private sector investment, and deliver a lasting boost to our local economy.

“We’re transforming nine disused buildings into dynamic spaces for production, innovation, and collaboration, breathing new life into areas that have long needed revitalisation. This development will help nurture local talent, support small businesses, and position Hartlepool as a serious player in the UK’s creative sector.

I’m incredibly proud of the partnership working that has brought us to this point. Together, we’re creating jobs, driving investment, and laying the foundations for a more prosperous and vibrant future for Hartlepool.”

The project is being led by Hartlepool Borough Council, in partnership with The Northern School of Art, Tees Valley Combined Authority and North East Screen, the region’s screen industries development agency. Funding for the project has been secured from the UK Government and Tees Valley Investment Zone.

Ben Houchen, Tees Valley Mayor said: “This is fantastic news for Hartlepool and the whole of Teesside. The expansion of The Northern Studios and the creation of a brand-new TV and film production village will put our region firmly on the map as a home for world-class screen industries.

“Not only will this huge investment bring derelict buildings back to life, it will also create high-quality jobs and opportunities for local people in an exciting and growing sector.

“We have already seen through shows like I Fought The Law how we are telling powerful and engaging stories about Teesside, Hartlepool and Darlington – and these new facilities will build on that to deliver something truly transformational for the town and wider region.”

The Northern Studios, which opened in 2022, have already hosted high-profile productions including ITV’s ratings hit, I Fought the Law, ITV comedy Transaction and the feature film Jackdaw. The expansion will build on this success, attracting both national and international productions to the town.

Martin Raby, Principal of The Northern School of Art, said: “This is excellent news. The Studios upgrade coupled with the creation of the Production Village, supported by the first-rate work of North East Screen, will mean that many more productions will be attracted to our region.

“It is gratifying to see this development of a project initiated by the School in 2016 and consistently backed by Hartlepool Borough Council, Tees Valley Combined Authority and now the Hartlepool Development Corporation. Without their support we wouldn’t see this great opportunity for change in our town and for the region.”

Alison Gwynn, Chief Executive of North East Screen, said: “Securing planning approval for the Hartlepool Production Village and the expansion of Northern Studios marks a pivotal moment for the North East’s screen sector.

“This development will allow us to continue to develop a thriving ecosystem for local talent and businesses who are working across linear TV and digital formats, and see more TV and film production across Hartlepool and the wider Tees Valley.

“We have stunning and diverse locations, experienced talented crew based in the region, and a network of local authorities who will ensure productions happen seamlessly.”

The development is being delivered in collaboration with industry specialists Leonard Design, Stace and TIME + SPACE.

Piers Read, CEO of TIME + SPACE, said: “TIME + SPACE is delighted to have advised on this hugely significant regeneration in Hartlepool. As specialists in developing creatively led real estate, we are excited to be going forward by revitalising these much loved but overlooked urban spaces by turning them into vibrant communities driven by film, entertainment, media and hospitality.”

John Holden, Director Major Projects at Leonard Design, said: “Leonard Design is proud to be designing and delivering the transformational Hartlepool Screen Industries Production Village and Northern Studios expansion, working alongside TIME + SPACE and in collaboration with Hartlepool Borough Council and Tees Valley Combined Authority. This visionary project establishes Hartlepool as the North East’s premier creative district, creating significant employment while transforming disused town centre buildings into vibrant creative workspaces and securing the town’s place at the heart of the UK’s rapidly expanding screen industries sector.”

With planning approvals now in place and funding secured, construction is expected to begin within the coming months.

BBC and North East Screen Launch First-of-its-Kind Digital Accelerator

Posted on 20 August 202515 September 2025 by Jo Macleod

The BBC Digital Accelerator, delivered in partnership with North East Screen, is designed to elevate the next wave of world-class digital content creators right here in the North East of England.

Who’s it for?

We’re looking for bold, ambitious production companies ready to develop standout content for online platforms that can generate future revenue. If you’re passionate about reaching audiences with innovative, platform-native video – think vertical formats, livestreams, creator-led collaborations, and social-first storytelling – we want to hear from you.

But it’s not just about companies. We’re also actively seeking digital creators who champion the North East, both on-screen and behind the scenes. If you’re producing content that resonates across TikTok, YouTube, Twitch, or other platforms – or if you’re eager to partner with companies shaping the future of digital storytelling – this is your chance to connect.

Why get involved?

This is more than just an accelerator. It’s an opportunity to:

• Apply as a company and access support to scale your content.

• Connect as a creator and find future collaborators in the region.

• Network with both companies and talent who share your ambition to supercharge the North East’s digital scene.

Let’s talk

Whether you’re a company hoping to apply, a creator looking to collaborate, or simply curious about how the BBC Digital Accelerator could help you grow, complete our expression of interest today.

All details and guidance will soon be available at https://www.bbc.co.uk/commissioning/.

Screen Alliance North launches industry wide working group to improve sustainability across productions in the North

Posted on 7 May 20257 May 2025 by Jo Macleod

Screen Alliance North, the northern screen industry skills cluster, (thanks to support from the BFI awarding National Lottery funding), is working closely with sustainability consultants Picture Zero to establish a new Sustainability Working Group.

Made up of members representing a cross section of industry professionals who are interested in improving sustainable practices, the north-wide peer group will be run by Picture Zero on behalf of Screen Alliance North and is sponsored by Sunbelt Rentals.

Representatives from ITV, BBC, Channel 4, 5, BFI and Heads of Department in the industry will implement sustainable working practices across production companies, freelance crew, new entrants and on all types of productions shooting in the North.

Penny Hall, Skills Cluster Lead at Screen Alliance North, said;

“We continue to work towards our aim of becoming a beacon of sustainable good practice and are establishing this group to allow us to communicate sustainability messages across the industry. Members of the group are at a senior level with significant experience of working on productions in the North. They will be sharing best practice, advocate for sustainable practices and aim to positively influence productions and crew.

The group will meet four times a year to workshop solutions, share resources and use their network to drive change ultimately feeding into a joined-up set of criteria for productions to adhere to when filming anywhere in the North.”

Eve Stollery, Picture Zero, added;

“Reducing the environmental impact of production and putting climate messaging on screen requires action right from the start. The earlier sustainability is considered, the bigger the difference the production can make. We hope through working closely with Screen Alliance North and members of the Sustainability Working Group we can find ways to affect change early in the production process, communicate best practice and share new sustainable ways of working.

We are delighted to be collaborating with Screen Alliance North and I look forward to meeting with members and working towards a greener and more sustainable northern screen industry.”

Jenny Clark, Partnerships and Development Manager at Sunbelt Rentals UK and Ireland, said;

“We are proud to support the Sustainability Working Group in their mission to create a more sustainable future for the screen industry. By partnering with innovators and leaders, we can drive meaningful change that reduces environmental impact and sets new standards for sustainability across the sector. Together, we’re committed to a greener, more responsible future for production, and we look forward to being part of this transformative journey.”

Screen Alliance North are looking for sponsors for various elements of the Sustainability Working Group – meetings, a suppliers list, newsletter and programme of activity. If this is something your company would be interested in, please contact eve@picturezero.com.

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 backs RTS North East and Border Awards winners

Posted on 17 February 202525 February 2025 by North East Screen

Nine of the winners at the 2025 RTS North East and Border Awards were supported by North East Screen initiatives. The North East Production Fund were behind the big winners of the night, Smoggie Queens (Hat Trick Productions) and The Red King (Quay Street Productions) who took home Newcomer, Best Comedy and Drama awards respectively.

A room full of some 500 figures from the TV and film industry gathered to celebrate the nominees and winners at the glittering annual Awards night on Saturday 15^th February held at Newcastle Gateshead Hilton.

David Parfitt, Chair of North East Screen said:

“It’s been a brilliant year for production in the North East, which is now the fastest growing region in the UK, despite the commissioning downturn. Whilst we’ve waved goodbye to the legendary Vera, we’ve welcomed the excellent Smoggie Queens and The Red King – who we can now say are RTS North East and Border Award winners! The series have delivered ratings success for their channels, and we hope that both will return to the region at some point.

“50% of winners have been supported by the initiatives North East Screen run, including the North East Production Fund, Reach and Open Horizons.

“The success of this year’s Awards further demonstrates how the North East Production Fund is already delivering inward investment, creating jobs and increasing visibility of our region as a place for global production.”

The North East’s TV and film industry has seen a massive rise over the past two years since the inception of the North East Screen Industries Partnership. There has been an 89% increase in production, with an estimated £40.2million in GVA. The partnership is also creating new and diverse pipelines to industry with over 1500 paid training days on set for new entrants and experienced crew stepping up and across.

Alison Gwynn, Chief Executive for North East Screen, said;

“The RTS North East and Borders Awards are a moment for us all to come together and celebrate the amazing achievements of the whole industry in our region.

And what a year it’s been! Over 40 productions have filmed across the North East, and talent from the region have earned global recognition for their work.

I’m really proud to see the North East Screen team and our North East Production Fund not only backing winners and welcoming international productions, but also offering experienced crew in the region opportunities to take their next step, providing real opportunities in the industry for new, diverse companies and new entrants.

“This will ensure the North East has a vibrant and sustainable screen industry for years to come.”

New Comedy Series Transaction, Starring Jordan Gray and Nick Frost, Begins Filming in Tees Valley

Posted on 19 November 2024 by North East Screen

ITVX has commissioned Transaction, a 6×30 comedy from Big Talk Studios, created by and starring award-winning comedy performer Jordan Gray.

Filming in Hartlepool, the workplace comedy also stars Nick Frost (Hot Fuzz, How To Train Your Dragon, Get Away), Doon Mackichan (Two Doors Down, Good Omens), Thomas Gray (Peacock, A Good Girl’s Guide To Murder), and Francesca Mills (The Witcher, Boat Story).

Jordan Gray stars as Liv, a transgender egomaniac, causing havoc in the strange world of the supermarket nightshift.

Having been hired to work there by Pellocks boss Simon (Frost) after he inadvertently offended the LGBTQ+ community with an ill-conceived marketing campaign, Liv soon realises she’s unsackable and sets about turning the store into her own personal playground, unleashing chaos on everyone and everything around her.

Transaction promises to be a colourful and noisy comedy from writer-performer Gray.
ITV’s Head of Comedy, Nana Hughes, said: “Jordan Gray’s unique blend of humour and creativity certainly make Transaction an exciting and engaging comedy. We cannot wait to see Jordan Gray and Nick Frost in action.”

Big Talk Studios CEO and Executive Producer, Kenton Allen, said: “Transaction promises to be a very eye-catching contemporary comedy, with Jordan Gray, Nick Frost and Thomas Gray forming an unlikely but electric three-some. Jordan’s razor-sharp writing and timing paired with Nick’s legendary comedic presence is comedy dynamite. And of course, it’s always a thrill to work with Mr Frost, a Big Talk OG of the finest vintage.”

Transaction Creator and cast member, Jordan Gray, said: “My one true goal with this show is to create something as timeless as my implants.”

Transaction (6×30) is a Big Talk Studios production, which is part of ITV Studios, for ITVX. It was commissioned by Nana Hughes, Head of Comedy, ITV. The series is written and created by Jordan Gray. The Executive Producers are Kenton Allen, Lucy Robinson, Jordan Gray, and Nick Frost, and the Producer is Lara Singer (Peacock). The Director is Ollie Parsons (Breeders, Man Like Mobeen). The series is produced in association with and will be distributed by ITV Studios. Additional funding support comes from the North East Screen Industries Partnership delivered by North East Screen.

Production village in heart of Hartlepool takes another step forward

Posted on 10 October 20245 November 2024 by North East Screen

A partnership to boost progress at a growing cultural media zone in Hartlepool is taking another step forward.

Led by Hartlepool Borough Council, the aim of creating a Production Village in the Lynn Street and Whitby Street areas of Hartlepool is to build on the town’s burgeoning screen industries sector and film-making pedigree.

Tees Valley Combined Authority is putting almost £2million towards the project – and now the Hartlepool Development Corporation is joining forces with Hartlepool Council to fund the next stage of efforts to review and expand the town’s film studios.

The Development Corporation board approved the move to jointly fund the next stage of work at a meeting on Tuesday, 15 October.

The TV and Film Industry in the North East is expanding rapidly.

The Northern School of Art (NSoA) converted the former bus sheds on Lynn Street in Hartlepool into film studios with help of the Council and Combined Authority.

Working with North East Screen, the region’s Screen Agency, The Northern Studios have now housed several high profile productions, with a string of productions seeing filming take place on location across our region.

Now rising investment and demand means there is a need to expand the offer – while also boosting the growth of Hartlepool town centre to create more jobs.

Tees Valley Mayor and chair of Hartlepool Development Corporation Ben Houchen said: “Our region is fast becoming one of the go-to places for film production. We want to build on this success, work even closer together, and attract the brightest and best to Hartlepool through the Production Village.

“Not only will this vision bring more jobs to the town, it will inspire our next generation of talent and ensure the great young minds we have can stay in Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool and go far in their careers.”

Hartlepool Council’s successful £16.5million Levelling Up Fund bid in 2023 is central to the vision with the authority leading on the Production Village & Northern Studios project.

Cllr Brenda Harrison, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council and Combined Authority Cabinet Member for Culture, added: “We are delighted to be working with the Hartlepool Development Corporation on this fantastic project which is set to have a truly transformative effect on the town.

“This reflects our on-going commitment to create high-quality job opportunities for local people, whilst also encouraging graduates from the Northern School of Art to stay in the town and to develop their careers here.”

The £11.4million North East Screen Industries Partnership has been backed by £4.5million of investment from the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority, and is being delivered by North East Screen.

The partnership was established to build on the BBC’s huge commitment to invest £25million in the region to help fund TV production and talent development across our creative sectors.

Alison Gwynn, Chief Executive of North East Screen, said: “”Film and TV production in the region has increased 89% in the past two years and we are already seeing the impact of that with £40.2million in GVA and 650 full time equivalent jobs created. The development of the Production Village in Hartlepool will strengthen our region’s ability to welcome incoming productions all year round and provide more opportunities for the brilliant companies and talent here.

“The Production Village will create a creative cluster that can provide world-class accessible and sustainable services to the industry, pipelines for local talent and ensure our region is a great place to live and work.”

The Development Corporation, Council and Northern School of Art are currently exploring the creation of a non-profit special purpose vehicle (SPV) for the Screen Industries Production Village project. The idea of this is to boost investment in the project and bring organisations together.

Lore, a Sea & Sky Pictures production, to premiere in August

Posted on 26 July 202430 July 2024 by North East Screen

Kaleidoscope Home Entertainment has announced that horror film Lore, produced by Hartlepool-based Sea & Sky Pictures, will premiere exclusively on the Icon Film Channel on Amazon Prime from the 26th of August.

A gripping and gruesome anthology horror, this highly acclaimed film, which premiered at FrightFest 2023, stars Richard Brake (Doom, Hannibal Rising), Andrew Lee Potts (The Witcher, Primeval), Bill Fellows (Ted Lasso, Lady Macbeth), and Rufus Hound (Hounded, Queens of Mystery).

Four young thrill-seeking friends book a horror-themed camping excursion led by Darwin, a strange and eccentric guide. One night around the campfire, Darwin encourages them to tell the scariest and most twisted story they can think of. As they recount tales of sinister spirits and malevolent demons, the group soon realises that these stories will have very real consequences for them all.

A love letter to classic horror, Lore is premiering exclusively on the Icon Film Channel from the 26th of August. Lore will also be available in select UK cinemas from the 27th of September and then on Digital Download from the 21st of October.