A TASK force has been set up by a council as part of a charter designed to bring more film and TV production to the region.

Wear Valley District Council signed Northern Film and Media's Filming Friendly and Partnership Charter earlier this month.

Now the authority has formed an initial working team in preparation for any future requests to use the district as a media location.

The team includes councillor Geoff Mowbray, strategic director Bob Hope, tourism officer Mike Richardson and public protection manager Tom Carver.

Also in the task force are marketing and communications manager Joanna Defty, media and promotions officer Lyndsey Rawle, district service manager Peter O'Neil, health and safety officer Tony Bough and legal service manager Andrew Coates.

Mike Richardson said: "It's great that the Wear Valley reputation as a filming destination is growing.

"When companies do arrive, as they have done recently, local businesses will see benefits from the crew spend in the first instance and hopefully from visitor spend once the productions are seen on the screen."

It is hoped the charter will encourage more big screen and television productions to be filmed in the area, bringing increased tourism, more jobs and greater pride.

Wear Valley District Council is the third local authority to sign up, behind Newcastle City Council and Chester-le-Street District Council.

Coun Mowbray, who signed the charter, said: "It's good for Wear Valley to work with film location seekers to attract producers to the area and it is also great for local residents and businesses.

"This is a very exciting time for Wear Valley."