ONE of the world's most well known figures in film will launch a series of special lectures by live video link in the North-East next week.

Lord David Puttnam, former Chancellor at Sunderland University, and Oscar winning film producer, is to offer three sessions for the public and students covering a variety of topics relevant to the current film and education industries.

The lectures are free for anyone to attend at the David Puttnam Media Centre, on the Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter's.

The first of the 2013 masterclasses will take place on Friday, January 25 between 3pm and 5pm. It will focus on how a balanced education in humanities, science, engineering, and maths can make a contribution to economic growth and education.

The penultimate masterclass will be held on Friday, February 1 and will examine the impact of film, television and the moving image can have on learning in Higher Education. He will also explain how a knowledge of digital technologies can contribute to a more informed, fulfilled and prosperous society. It will also take place between 3pm and 5pm at the same venue.

The final lecture looks at the challenges of making financial returns in an era in which an increasing amount of the content offered online is free. This will take place between 11am and 1pm on Friday 8 February at the same venue with doors opening at 10:40am.

To book a ticket ring 0191-515-2634.