A MILLION-POUND movie production centre has opened in the region, raising hopes the North-East's growing film industry can expand further.

The Gateshead facilities are said to be some of the most advanced outside London.

The centre has two final-cut editing suites, 3D graphic technology, and can accommodate film, television, advertising, animation or corporate work.

The North-East has already been the location for iconic films including Get Carter, pictured, Harry Potter, and the recent epic, Atonement.

The £1m centre, opened by Veritas Broadcast, is the first of its kind in the region.

Tony Hazell, Veritas managing director, said the idea of the centre was to attract established moviemakers to the North-East and promote the next generation of film makers.

He said: "Our aim in opening the suite to outside companies is to show that you don't need to be in London to have access to excellent post-production facilities.

"We hope that regional, national and international filmmakers will carry on using the fantastic locations available in the North-East, and that we can continue to help grow fantastic local talent."