THE organisation spearheading the growth of the region's film industry has won national recognition.

Lord Puttnam has presented Newcastle-based Northern Film and Media (NFM) with Skillset Approved Regional Partner status. The accolade is given for commitment to training.

Lord Puttnam said: "There is a real opportunity for this region to really ensure that the brightest and the best, whatever their background, have an opportunity to participate in an industry that is brimming with opportunity.

"The industry asked Skillset to establish an approvals system to ensure that training and education provision matches industry needs - both in terms of meeting skills gaps and shortages, and in terms of quality and standards.

"It does means that anyone participating in training activity with Northern Film and Media knows they will receive professional, high-quality, industry-based development."

Northern Film and Media, set up last year, is a not-for-profit agency that aims to attract more film-makers to the North-East, while fostering local talent.

It is working with partners that include One NorthEast and the UK Film Council to build a sustainable industry.

Tom Harvey, its chief executive, said the partnership with Skillset would ensure that the region's film workforce was able to meet the needs of a rapidly changing sector.

He said: "Although we are a new agency, the people in our team have a great track record and are respected and valued by our clients.

"Training and development are central to our aim. Now we have achieved their quality standard, it will guide us in all that we do."