A NEW initiative has been launched to support the creative industries kick start their businesses.

Tees Valley Screen will provide support to individuals and businesses in the region who work, or are looking to enhance their work, within film, television and moving imagery.

The scheme, which is being backed by Tees Valley Mayor and the Tees Valley Combined Authority, in partnership with top agency Northern Film + Media, will also provide regular networking events, training and access to industry experts.

It is anticipated that the initiative will be run from Hartlepool’s new BIS centre, which is at the heart of ambitious plans to regenerate the Church Street area and develop a thriving creative industries quarter.

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

“This heritage continues to inspire local people today, meaning we have a thriving and growing creative sector in the region that we should be proud of.

“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.”

Councillor Shane Moore, leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “I’m delighted Tees Valley Screen is being established to support those in our region who work – or are looking to expand their work – within film, television and moving imagery.”

John Tulip, Managing Director of Northern Film + Media, added: “There’s an incredible opportunity being seize to make the dynamic, creative and future-proof industry of film a hallmark of the region, and to enjoy the subsequent return on investment that will follow.”

A steering group has been appointed to shape the programme, made up of industry specialists, including 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, Gemma Hall, a film producer and disability advocate within the film industry as well as visionary filmmaker Maxy Bianco.

For more information on upcoming events visit

here

.